Vibrio vulnificus infection. Case report and update since 1970.

Vibrio vulnificus infections is being reported with increasing frequency in coastal regions of the United States. Raw seafood consumption, particularly raw oysters, and wounds acquired in a marine environment predispose to infection. Patients with advanced liver disease are at increased risk of developing septicemia. V. vulnificus is a virulent pathogen producing significant morbidity and mortality; its virulence relates in part to the production of exotoxin. Skin lesions occur early in the clinical course of infection and provide means of specific diagnosis. The patient and the consulting physician are well served by the dermatologist capable of recognizing this infectious disease.