Clostridium Cadaveris: A Rare Pathogen in Clinical Infections–A Case Report and Comprehensive Review of Literature

Background: Clostridium cadaveris is an anaerobic, spore-forming bacteria historically linked to human decomposition. It has emerged as a pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Once considered non-pathogenic, recent evidence suggests its capacity to cause infections in vulnerable populations. Case Presentation: We present a 50-year-old woman with metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma undergoing chemotherapy with C. cadaveris infection. The patient had fever, anemia, and lower abdominal discomfort. Initial treatment included Zosyn followed by Meropenem, fluid resuscitation, and blood transfusion. Due to persistent bacteremia metronidazole was added to meropenem. Thereafter, the patient clinically improved and blood cultures were negative after ten days. Discussion: A review of 14 documented cases of C. cadaveris infections was done. Infection often occurs in patients with gastrointestinal disruption, chronic wounds, or invasive medical procedures and presents with symptoms of sepsis, fever, diarrhea, and abdominal symptoms. Immunocompromised individuals, especially those with cancer or undergoing chemotherapy, were affected. Antibiotic therapy, predominantly metronidazole, showed favorable outcomes. When observed, mortality was attributed to pre-existing comorbidities rather than the infection. Conclusion: C. cadaveris is a rare and potentially significant pathogen, particularly in vulnerable populations. Immediate recognition, diagnosis, and appropriate antibiotic therapy are important for improving the outcome. This review shows the requisite for further research and case documentation to broaden our knowledge of this uncommon pathogen and guide treatment strategies.