[Bacteremia by Corynebacterium striatum and neutrocytic ascites. Presentation of a case and review of the literature].

Corynebacterium striatum is a Gram-positive pleomorphic bacillus that has been regarded as a saprophyte of mucous membranes and skin. There are certain difficulties in identifying the Corynebacteria species in the laboratory and it is often necessary to resort to techniques which are not available in all laboratories. Over recent years, C. striatum has shown itself to be a potential pathogen generally in weakened or immunodepressed individuals, in relation with intravenous catheters and in intensive care units. We report a case of bacteremia by C. striatum and neutrocytic ascites probably related to that microorganism, and, in view of the rarity of this isolement, we have reviewed the cases published on this subject.