A case of septic pulmonary embolism caused by odontogenic infection with <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i>

Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) is a rare but serious infectious disorder. We report the case of 37-year-old man with odontogenic infection-associated SPE caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae. He was referred to our hospital because of pain of the right side of the cheek. Physical examination showed a high fever, chest pain, and dyspnea. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed a nodule shadow at the left lung with features of SPE. The search for the primary source of infection revealed only periodontitis. Therefore, we diagnosed the case as SPE associated with periodontitis. Surgical drainage, root canal treatment, and antibiotic treatment were performed on hospital day 1. However, since general condition worsened on hospital day 6 and another chest CT showed pleural effusions at the left lung, thoracoscopic surgery was performed. K. pneumoniae was detected by bacteria test results of intraoral matter, blood cultures, and hydrothorax. After surgery and treatment with antibiotics, the patient’s condition improved.