We report a case of Yersinia enterocolitica sepsis syndrome and the acute r
espiratory distress syndrome in a chronically transfused adolescent with be
ta-thalassemia. This manifestation of serious Y. enterocolitica infection h
as not previously been reported. Dyspnea hypoxia, and fever were the princi
pal features of the clinical presentation. The acute onset of respiratory s
ymptoms occurred after appendectomy. Chest radiographs revealed frontal bil
ateral infiltrates and alveolar consolidation to three quadrants. Y. entero
colitica was identified from blood and intraoperative appendix cultures. Al
though there was no need for mechanical ventilation, a remarkable persisten
ce of clinical and X-ray findings was noted. Therapy with high levels of ox
ygen, and intravenous amikacin and piperacillin/tazobactam led to a favorab
le outcome.