Stenotrophomonas Infections: Antibiotic Resistance and Treatment

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 explores the antibiotic resistance and treatment options for Stenotrophomonas infections, particularly respiratory infections caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.