Stenotrophomonas maltophilia

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a Gram-negative, aerobic, non-fermentative, non-spore-forming, motile, bacterial species. It is found in various aquatic environments, and is also an opportunistic pathogen, particularly in hospital environments.

Characteristics

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is characterized by its multidrug resistance, which makes it a significant pathogen in healthcare settings. It is resistant to many broad-spectrum antibiotics, including carbapenems and aminoglycosides, but is typically sensitive to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX).

Pathogenicity

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen, meaning it primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems. It can cause a variety of infections, including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, skin infections, and eye infections. Infections are often associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Treatment

Treatment of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections can be challenging due to the organism's inherent multidrug resistance. The antibiotic trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is typically the first-line treatment. In cases where the patient is allergic to or cannot tolerate TMP/SMX, other options include ceftazidime, levofloxacin, and minocycline.

Epidemiology

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is found worldwide in various aquatic environments, including water, soil, and plants. It is also commonly found in hospital environments, particularly on surfaces and in medical devices such as catheters and ventilators.

See also

• Gram-negative bacteria
• Opportunistic infection
• Antibiotic resistance