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Cerebrospinal meningitis with the presence of Acinetobacter spp

E Gospodarek1, K Kraśnicki, G Ziółkowski

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Medical University, ul. M. Curie-Sldodowskiej 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland.

Medical Science Monitor : International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research
|February 24, 2001
PubMed

Insights

This study identified Acinetobacter baumannii in cerebrospinal fluid infections, finding all strains resistant to multiple antibiotics. Effective treatment requires sensitivity testing and good hygiene practices to prevent spread.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Acinetobacter species are significant opportunistic pathogens, particularly in hospital-acquired infections.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) infections caused by Acinetobacter pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize Acinetobacter strains isolated from CSF, including species identification and antibiotic susceptibility.
  • To evaluate the prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) in these strains.
  • To provide recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Acinetobacter meningitis.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and identification of Acinetobacter strains from CSF using BacT/Alert and API 20NE systems.
  • Antibiotic susceptibility testing performed via the disc-diffusion method according to NCCLS guidelines.
  • Detection of ESBLs using a two-disc synergy test.

Main Results:

  • 16 Acinetobacter strains were isolated from CSF; 14 identified as Acinetobacter baumannii.
  • All strains exhibited multidrug resistance, except for one A. haemolyticus strain.
  • Carbapenems showed universal sensitivity; 7 strains produced ESBLs, often detected with clavulanic acid/aztreonam.

Conclusions:

  • Acinetobacter meningitis requires accurate microbiological diagnosis beyond microscopy, considering its resistance patterns.
  • Treatment strategies must incorporate antibiotic sensitivity testing and CSF penetration capabilities.
  • A combination of antibiotic stewardship, hygiene, and infection monitoring is crucial for preventing the spread of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter.

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