Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Acute Sepsis Caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei Infection: A Case Report and Literature Review

Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei , is a tropical infectious disease with diverse clinical manifestations, which can rapidly progress to acute sepsis and multiorgan failure with high mortality. Here, we report a 45-year-old male who presented with fever, cough, and left lower limb erythema and was diagnosed with melioidosis via metagenomic next-generation sequencing. Despite prompt treatment with meropenem, the patient deteriorated rapidly and succumbed to septic shock and multiorgan failure. Through a literature review, we summarize the epidemiology, diagnostic strategies (eg, metagenomic next-generation sequencing, blood culture and imaging), and treatment protocols (eg, ceftazidime or meropenem), emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and intensive therapy. This case highlights the importance of heightened suspicion after endemic exposure and the integration of multidisciplinary approaches to optimize outcomes.