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Large-scale outbreak of infection with Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus after penicillin injection
Yang Zhibang1, Zhang BiXia, Lu Qishan
1Department of Microbiology, Chongqing University of Medical Science, Chongqing, People's Republic of China 400016. dryangfm365@sina.com
Abstract:
An outbreak of infection with Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus after the injection of penicillin in 86 patients attending a factory hospital is reported. The bacterium was isolated both from lids and from the soil where the drug was stored. Molecular analysis by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of whole-cell proteins and plasmids revealed a pattern identical to that of the strains isolated from the wounds. The source of the infections was soil contamination of the vial lids and was caused by improper use and sterilization of penicillin vials.
Insights
An outbreak of Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus infection occurred in 86 patients following penicillin injections. Soil contamination of vial lids due to improper handling caused the outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus is an emerging opportunistic pathogen.
- Improper handling and sterilization of medical supplies can lead to outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus infection.
- To identify the source and transmission route of the infection.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial isolation from patients, vial lids, and soil.
- Molecular typing using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) of whole-cell proteins and plasmids.
Main Results:
- Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus was isolated from infected patients, vial lids, and soil.
- Molecular analysis confirmed identical strains from all sources.
- The outbreak was linked to soil contamination of penicillin vial lids.
Conclusions:
- Improper use and sterilization of penicillin vials led to soil contamination.
- Contaminated vials served as the source for the Mycobacterium chelonae subsp. abscessus outbreak.
- Strict adherence to sterilization protocols is crucial to prevent such infections.