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Updated: Jul 20, 2026

Isolation and Identification of Waterborne Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Molecular Characterization of their Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Published on: March 3, 2023
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole: an increasing problem
1Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Hospital, Box X-966, P.O. Box 7897, Riyadh - 11159, Saudi Arabia. asjass2002@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) has recently emerged as an important nosocomial pathogen. Treatment of invasive infections caused by this organism is difficult as the bacterium is frequently resistant to a wide range of commonly used antimicrobials. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP - SXT) is recommended as the agent of choice for the treatment of S. maltophilia infections. However, the development of resistance to this antibiotic represents a real challenge to laboratorians and clinicians. This letter describes the first isolation of S. maltophilia resistant to TMP - SXT from two patients treated at Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital which is a major tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia.
Insights
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a growing nosocomial threat, is becoming resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SXT). This study reports the first documented TMP-SXT resistant S. maltophilia cases in Saudi Arabia.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an emerging nosocomial pathogen.
- Infections are challenging due to frequent antimicrobial resistance.
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SXT) is the recommended treatment.
Observation:
- This letter details the initial identification of S. maltophilia strains exhibiting resistance to TMP-SXT.
- These resistant strains were isolated from two patients at Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital, a key tertiary care facility in Saudi Arabia.
Findings:
- The study reports the first isolation of TMP-SXT resistant S. maltophilia in Saudi Arabia.
- This highlights a significant challenge in treating S. maltophilia infections.
Implications:
- The emergence of TMP-SXT resistance in S. maltophilia necessitates updated treatment guidelines.
- This finding has critical implications for infection control and antimicrobial stewardship in the region.
- Further surveillance and research are crucial to monitor and combat antimicrobial resistance in S. maltophilia.
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