Klebsiella pneumoniae is a type of bacteria that causes a number of different types of infection in hospitals or the community. Symptoms found in K. pneumoniae infections are related to the specific part of the body affected. Please note that only a test can confirm you have a drug resistant KPC and that the lists below are a general guide only. They can also be symptoms of other infections so seek medical advice for a definite diagnosis.
Pneumonia due to Klebsiella pneumoniae hits alcoholics, diabetics and people with chronic lung disease particularly hard. Patients present with sudden onset, high fever and bloody sputum. Other symptoms may include confusion, night sweats, chills, and chest pain.
Urinary Tract Infections
K. pneumoniae is the source of urinary tract infections, or UTIs, in 1 to 2 percent of healthy adult patients – so the spread of a drug resistant version such as KPC could impact the lives of millions. UTI symptoms include pain on urination, fever, chills and flank pain.
K. pneumoniae can provoke wound infections. They are also a cause of surgical site infections. Symptoms may include redness at the wound site, pain, and heat. There may also be a pus-filled discharge from the infection site.
Pneumonia, UTIs and other intraabdominal infections caused by K. pneumoniae can result in bacteremia, or infection in the bloodstream. This medical emergency can kill alcoholics very quickly even with the best antibiotic therapy and excellent patient management.
Intraabdominal infections that may be linked to K. pneumoniae include peritonitis and infections in the bile ducts. Symptoms may include delirium, fever and chills.