Septicemia caused by which organism is commonly associated with underlying malignancy?

Septicemia caused by which organism is commonly associated with underlying malignancy?

• A. Bifidobacterium dentium
• B. Clostridium septicum
• C. Eubacterium lentum
• D. Lactobacillus catenaforme

Answer: (B)

Septicemia caused by Clostridium septicum is classically linked to occult malignancy, especially colorectal cancer. This organism is part of the gut flora and can invade through tumor-affected or compromised mucosa, leading to rapid bacteremia. When C. septicum is isolated from blood, it often prompts a cancer workup because of this strong association. The other organisms listed are less specifically tied to underlying malignancy; they can cause infections in other contexts but do not have the same well-documented link to hidden cancers.

Septicemia caused by Clostridium septicum is classically linked to occult malignancy, especially colorectal cancer. This organism is part of the gut flora and can invade through tumor-affected or compromised mucosa, leading to rapid bacteremia. When C. septicum is isolated from blood, it often prompts a cancer workup because of this strong association. The other organisms listed are less specifically tied to underlying malignancy; they can cause infections in other contexts but do not have the same well-documented link to hidden cancers.