A case report of Vibrio vulnificus sepsis in a diabetic patient

Vibrio vulnificus is a facultative anaerobic, alkalophilic, halophilic, mesophilic, Gram-negative bacterium that can cause severe wound infection, sepsis and diarrhea. This paper reported a case of 85-year-old male patient infected with Vibrio vulnificus due to being stabbed by a sea shrimp. This patient also had diabetes with a long history of alcoholism. Due to bacterial pathogenicity and the patient's underlying diseases, his condition deteriorated rapidly. Based on the rapid diagnosis of Vibrio vulnificus using the next-generation sequencing（NGS）technology and blood culture method, as well as the selection of the most effective antibiotics via drug sensitivity test, this patient underwent precise antimicrobial treatment, thorough debridement and drainage within the shortest possible time, and thus the prognosis of this patient was greatly improved. In this paper, we have systematically explored the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of Vibrio vulnificus infection, thus providing a practical reference for the clinicians to quickly identify and treat possible Vibrio vulnificus infection in diabetic patients after contacting with sea water or seafood. •V. vulnificus sepsis is common in patients with chronic underlying diseases.•Both blood culture and NGS are used in the detection of V. vulnificus.•Early thorough debridement and drainage can improve prognosis of the patient.•Early and combined adequate antibiotic treatment is key for V. vulnificus sepsis.•Reduced immunity and high glucose level in diabetes promote V. vulnificus growth.