Spontaneous small bowel perforation secondary to Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection: A case report

Background: Vibrio pararhaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus), a pathogen that commonly causes gastroenteritis, could potentially lead to a pandemic in Asia. Its pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms vary, and the severity of illness can be diverse, ranging from mild gastroenteritis, requiring only supportive care, to sepsis.

Case summary: We outline a case of a 71-year-old female who experienced an acute onset of severe abdominal tenderness after two days of vomiting and diarrhea prior to her emergency department visit. A small bowel perforation was diagnosed using computed tomography. The ascites cultured revealed infection due to V. parahaemolyticus.

Conclusion: Our case is the first reported case of V. parahaemolyticus-induced gastroenteritis resulting in small bowel perforation.