Lid abscess: An unusual presentation of melioidosis

Abstract

Melioidosis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei), is an emerging infection in India. Clinical manifestation of melioidosis is variable ranging from localized benign infection to fulminant septicemia. Ocular presentation of melioidosis is rare. However, cases of endophthalmitis, keratitis and orbital infections have been reported. We report the isolation of B. pseudomallei in a 40 year old male, presenting with fever and lid abscess. The patient was treated with meropenem during the acute phase and switched to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole for eradication phase.