Associated Diseases from Serratia Marcescens Exposure
There are numerous illnesses and diseases associated with Serratia marcescens exposure. The list of associated diseases includes: sepsis, bacteremia, meningitis and cerebral abscesses, urinary tract infections, osteomyelitis, ocular infections, and endocarditis. Thus, the signs and symptoms of possible Serratia exposure vary greatly depending on the particular disease. However, exhibiting the signs and symptoms of these diseases does not confirm exposure to Serratia marcescens as these diseases have multiple origination sources. Nonetheless, a person exhibiting signs and symptoms of any of these diseases should seek immediate medical attention and treatment, regardless of possible Serratia exposure. These conditions can be extremely harmful, and in some cases, life threatening and fatal.
Blood infections (sepsis and bacteremia) with Serratia marcescens may present with numerous signs and symptoms including fever, chills, respiratory distress, vomiting, shock, and other flu like symptoms. Serratia related blood infections and the associated signs and symptoms have been experienced by those infected with the contaminated Heparin syringes (see Heparin Pre-filled Syringes page for further information on contaminated syringes).
Meningitis and cerebral abscesses caused by Serratia marcescens may present with signs and symptoms such as headaches, fever, vomiting, stupor, and even coma. Serratia related meningitis has developed primarily in children with a history of sepsis. As well, adults who have had recent head trauma, neurosurgery, or lumbar punctures, may developed Serratia related meningitis. Serratia related meningitis has a high mortality rate (possibly as high as 30%).
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are commonly associated with Serratia marcescens. Signs and symptoms of a Serratia related UTI include fever, excessive urination, and painful or otherwise irregular urination. Almost all Serratia related UTIs develop after medical procedures involving the urinary tract.
Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone or bone marrow and may be caused by Serratia marcescens disseminated to the bone through the blood stream. Signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis include edema, tenderness, restricted movement of a body part (usually an extremity), fatigue, and fever. Serratia osteomyelitis has been associated with surgical procedures to repair bones. The onset of Serratia osteomyelitis may not present until months or even years (up to two years) after initial infection.
Ocular infections can occur from eye exposure to Serratia marcescens, such as keratitis (an inflamed cornea), endophthalmitis (inflammation of coats of eye), or conjunctivitis (pink eye). These infections may present with eye pain, eye redness, eye irritation, eye pressure, and swelling of the eye. As well, edophthalmitis may present with general signs of infection such as fever, chills, and edema. These infections are typically associated with contaminated contact lenses and contact lens solutions, and recent ocular surgery. They can be extremely serious and in some cases, lead to reduction or loss of vision.
Endocarditis is an infection in the inner lining of the heart usually from the spread of bacteria (possibly Serratia marcescens) from the blood stream, and is therefore related to Serratia marcescens blood infections. Signs and symptoms of Serratia endocarditis may include flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, pain, respiratory problems, petechiae, and night sweats. Endocarditis can be extremely serious and even fatal if not treated rapidly. Serratia endocarditis has been associated with the use of the contaminated Heparin syringes (see Heparin Pre-filled Syringes page for further information on contaminated syringes).
Contaminated Syringe Lawsuits
If you or a loved one have suffered an injury and contracted the Serratia marcescens bacteria after using Sierra Heparin Lock Flush Solution syringes, then you should contact us immediately to talk to a Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Nationwide Assistance is available and our consultation is free and confidential. Write us online or call us: Toll Free 1-800-883-9858.
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