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Bordetella holmesii: an under-recognised Bordetella species

Laure F Pittet1, Stéphane Emonet2, Jacques Schrenzel2

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Division of General Paediatrics, Children's Hospital, University Hospitals of Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.

The Lancet. Infectious Diseases
|April 12, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Bordetella holmesii causes invasive infections and pertussis-like symptoms, often misdiagnosed due to non-specific tests. Research is needed for better diagnosis and treatment strategies against this evolving pathogen.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Bacteriology

Background:

  • Bordetella holmesii, identified in 1995, causes invasive infections (bacteraemia, meningitis, pneumonia, etc.) and pertussis-like illness.
  • Routine pertussis diagnostics are not species-specific, leading to frequent misidentification of B. holmesii as Bordetella pertussis.
  • Invasive B. holmesii infections can lead to significant morbidity, even in healthy individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on Bordetella holmesii diagnosis and treatment.
  • To identify research gaps and future needs for managing B. holmesii infections.
  • To assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of B. holmesii.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Bordetella holmesii diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiology.
  • Analysis of antimicrobial susceptibility data for B. holmesii.
  • Assessment of current diagnostic limitations and surveillance strategies.

Main Results:

  • B. holmesii is frequently misdiagnosed as B. pertussis due to non-specific diagnostic tests.
  • Antimicrobial susceptibility of B. holmesii to macrolides and cephalosporins is lower than anticipated.
  • No fatal cases have been reported, but invasive infections cause considerable morbidity.

Conclusions:

  • Improved diagnostic assays are crucial for accurate identification of B. holmesii.
  • Antimicrobial treatment strategies may require adjustment due to resistance patterns.
  • Enhanced epidemiological surveillance is necessary as B. holmesii continues to adapt and potentially increase in virulence.

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