Pseudomonas fluorescens infections in clinical practice

Area of Science:

• Clinical microbiology
• Infectious diseases
• Medical case reports

Background:

• Pseudomonas fluorescens, a member of the Pseudomonadaceae family, is generally considered less virulent.
• Infections caused by P. fluorescens are uncommon, particularly in non-nosocomial settings.
• Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for opportunistic infections.

Observation:

• A case of P. fluorescens bacteremia in an elderly, immunocompromised patient presenting with fever.
• Initial empirical antibiotic therapy was unsuccessful.
• The patient's infection was successfully treated with ceftazidime.

Findings:

• Successful treatment of P. fluorescens infection with ceftazidime.
• Challenges associated with the isolation and susceptibility testing of P. fluorescens.
• Discussion of the epidemiology of P. fluorescens infections.

Implications:

• Ceftazidime can be an effective treatment option for P. fluorescens infections.
• Highlights the importance of accurate pathogen identification and susceptibility testing, even for less common organisms.
• Underscores the need for vigilance in diagnosing and managing infections in immunocompromised patients.