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Pediatrics

Paenibacillus Infections in Adults and Infants: A Systematic Review

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Paenibacillus infections have been on the rise in recent years, with neonatal infections becoming increasingly common. A new study conducted by researchers at the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine aimed to review the epidemiology of Paenibacillus infections in pediatric and adult patients. The study, published in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal, found significant differences in the clinical presentations and outcomes of Paenibacillus infections between adults and infants.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study included 40 reports describing 177 infections, with 38 of those infections occurring in adults and 141 in infants.
  • Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus was the primary cause of infections in infants, with 79% of cases caused by this species.
  • Infants with Paenibacillus infection presented with sepsis syndrome or meningitis, often complicated by extensive cerebral destruction and hydrocephalus.
  • Outcomes were poor, with 17% mortality and 65% of infants requiring surgical management of hydrocephalus.
  • Cystic encephalomalacia was common in both Ugandan and American infant cases.
  • Paenibacillus species seem to cause a distinct clinical syndrome in infants characterized by brain abscesses, hydrocephalus, and death.
  • In contrast, infections in adults were sporadic, with rare involvement of the central nervous system and very few deaths.
  • The study highlights the need for improved diagnostic and treatment protocols for Paenibacillus infections in infants.

Statistics:

  • 177 infections were included in the study.
  • 38 infections occurred in adults, while 141 occurred in infants.
  • 79% of infant infections were caused by Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus.
  • 17% of infants with Paenibacillus infection died, with 65% requiring surgical management of hydrocephalus.
  • 92% of infant cases had cystic encephalomalacia.

Sources:

  • A Systematic Review of Human paenibacillus Infections and Comparison of Adult and Pediatric Cases. Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal, 2025;44(5):455-461.
  • Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal can be contacted at: Two Commerce Sq, 2001 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA.
  • Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine. (Additional information may be obtained by contacting Jessica E. Ericson, Department of Pediatrics, Hershey, PA, United States.)

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