Xanthomonas maltophilia

Xanthomonas maltophilia is a Gram-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped bacterium that is part of the Xanthomonadaceae family. It is known for its ability to survive in a variety of ecological environments, including soil, water, and plants.

Taxonomy

Originally, Xanthomonas maltophilia was classified under the genus Pseudomonas. However, it was later reclassified to the genus Xanthomonas due to its physiological and biochemical characteristics. The species name "maltophilia" is derived from the Greek words "maltos" (malt) and "philos" (loving), indicating its ability to grow in maltose medium.

Characteristics

Xanthomonas maltophilia is a motile bacterium, possessing a single flagellum that allows it to move. It is also a capsulated bacterium, which provides it with resistance against various environmental conditions.

Pathogenicity

Xanthomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen, causing infections primarily in immunocompromised individuals. It is known to cause bacteremia, pneumonia, endocarditis, and meningitis, among other infections.

Treatment

Treatment of Xanthomonas maltophilia infections can be challenging due to its inherent resistance to many antibiotics. However, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is often used as the first-line treatment.

Epidemiology

Xanthomonas maltophilia is widely distributed in the environment and can be found in soil, water, and plants. It is also frequently isolated from hospital environments, where it can cause nosocomial infections.

See also

• Xanthomonadaceae
• Opportunistic infection
• Nosocomial infection