Diabetes-Driven Dilemma: Tackling The Rise of Melioidosis in India

Abstract

Melioidosis is a potentially fatal infectious disease that requires an extended period of treatment for complete resolution of the infection. It can lead to chronic and severe infections, and it is more common in diabetic patients. Melioidosis is also a significant concern in India primarily because its chronic nature, potential for dissemination, extended treatment requirements, and the risk of relapse lead to its resemblance to tuberculosis. This case series included osteomyelitis patient presented in emergency with sepsis MODS, disseminated melioidosis patient with systemic involvement including spleen, kidney and lungs, skin abscess at more than one site, urosepsis, splenic abscess, Melioidotic arthritis. Many of these patients had altered blood sugar levels, and in 3 cases, individuals were even diagnosed with diabetes during their episode of melioidosis the treatment duration generally involved an 8-week course of intravenous antibiotics. However, oral medications may need to be continued for several months if necessary for complete recovery.