Uncommon pathogen in an unexpected place: A case of Oligella urethralis bacteremia linked to retained IUD

Abstract

This case report describes a rare instance of Oligella urethralis bacteremia in a patient with a retained intrauterine device (IUD). The patient presented with confusion. Although typically considered a commensal organism of the urogenital tract, Oligella urethralis can act as an opportunistic pathogen. It is crucial to obtain imaging studies such as CT abdomen pelvis when the source of bacteremia is unclear. In this case, the presence of an IUD is the predisposing factor. Successful management involved IUD removal and targeted antibiotic therapy, leading to full recovery. Due to its rarity and difficulty isolating using standard laboratory methods, there is a risk of misidentification and delayed identification of Oligella urethralis.