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Achromobacter xylosoxidans. An unusual neonatal pathogen
1Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235-9072.
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|August 1, 1991
Summary
This study documents the first case of maternal-fetal transfer of Achromobacter xylosoxidans, a rare pediatric pathogen. The neonate developed Achromobacter meningitis, highlighting a rare in utero transmission route.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal infections
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Achromobacter xylosoxidans is a rare pediatric pathogen.
- Neonatal Achromobacter infections are typically acquired nosocomially.
- Meningitis caused by A. xylosoxidans has high mortality and sequelae.
Observation:
- A case of perinatal acquisition of A. xylosoxidans in a neonate is described.
- Cultures confirmed A. xylosoxidans in both mother and neonate.
- Clinical chorioamnionitis in the mother suggested ascending bacterial infection as the transmission route.
Findings:
- Postmortem examination confirmed Achromobacter meningitis in the infant.
- This represents the first documented case of maternal-fetal transfer of A. xylosoxidans.
- In contrast to this case, 79% of previously reported neonatal Achromobacter infections were nosocomial.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare in utero transmission route for A. xylosoxidans.
- Understanding maternal-fetal transmission is crucial for preventing neonatal infections.
- Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms and prevalence of maternal-fetal transmission of this pathogen.