Invasive Vibrio cholerae infection following burn injury

Vibrio cholerae is a pathogen predominantly appreciated for its potential to produce life-threatening watery diarrhea, usually without invasive disease. However, nonepidemic forms, which are present worldwide, may have a severe invasive presentation, especially among those with liver disease or other immunocompromised states. We present a case of invasive infection (pulmonary, wound, and bacteremia) by nonepidemic V. cholerae, in a soldier that sustained burn injury in Iraq. Multiple factors, to include burn injury and water exposure, likely contributed to this presentation. A brief discussion of the pertinent literature is included.