Simple Site, Serious Sequelae: Septic Emboli from a Peripheral Cannula

Abstract

Presentation
A young female patient presented with right arm pain and pleuritic chest pain following recent hospitalisation. Investigations demonstrated marked inflammation (CRP 296 mg/L, WCC 13.7 ×10⁹/L).

Diagnosis
She was diagnosed with multiple septic pulmonary emboli (SPE) secondary to cephalic vein thrombophlebitis and cellulitis at a previous cannula site.

Treatment
Despite prolonged intravenous antibiotics, she later developed culture-proven septic arthritis requiring washout and further treatment.

Discussion
Peripheral venous cannula-associated SPE remain rarely reported.