Stenotrophomonas Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance

Introduction to Stenotrophomonas Infections

• Stenotrophomonas species infections, particularly respiratory infections, require more comprehensive and reliable studies on the use of new antimicrobial drugs.
• This review highlights the resistance determinants of S.maltophilia, re-examines classical antimicrobial pharmacology, and discusses optimal antibiotic doses and mortality.
• Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a relevant pathogen causing respiratory infections, with recent reports of carbapenem-resistant strains worldwide, leading to high mortality.

Overview of Stenotrophomonas Bacteria

• The whole genome shotgun sequence of S.maltophilia strain K279a has been determined, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis and virulence.
• Identified genes encode for microbial secretion systems, regulatory proteins, and mechanisms involved in bacterial adhesion, colonization, and intracellular growth.
• Stenotrophomonas is an aerobic, nonfermentative, lactose-negative, oxidase-negative, catalase-positive, non-glucose-fermenting Gram-negative bacillus in the family Xanthomonadaceae.
• Stenotrophomonas has a worldwide distribution, is present in soil and water, and has a low pathogenic potential in humans.
• It is a colonizer of the oropharynx, skin, and feces, with an isolation rate ranging from 6.1% to over 90% in patients with cystic fibrosis.
• Contamination of the reagent water supply or transmission/outbreaks in healthcare facilities have been reported.

This quiz covers the antimicrobial resistance of Stenotrophomonas species, particularly in respiratory infections, and the optimal use of antibiotics. It also highlights the importance of understanding the pharmacology of these drugs.