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Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Kiran Chawla1, Shashidhar Vishwanath2, Ashu Gupta3

  • 1Additional Professor, Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University , Manipal, India .

Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR
|February 6, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an increasing cause of hospital-acquired pneumonia, especially in ventilated patients. Effective treatments include fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Medical Microbiology

Background:

  • Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an emerging cause of nosocomial pneumonia.
  • The pathogen exhibits inherent resistance to many broad-spectrum antibiotics.
  • Understanding its clinical and microbiological profile is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the demographic, clinical, and microbiological characteristics of patients with lower respiratory tract infections caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.
  • To identify predisposing factors and assess treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 33 patients diagnosed with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia lower respiratory tract infections between 2012 and 2013.
  • Review of patient data including predisposing factors, antibiotic susceptibility, treatment regimens, and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Mechanical ventilation was the predominant predisposing factor (51.5%).
  • Fluoroquinolones (78.8%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (72.7%) were the most effective antibiotics.
  • Clinical improvement was observed in 68.4% of patients receiving appropriate antibiotics versus 57.1% not receiving appropriate treatment. Mortality rate was 21.2%.

Conclusions:

  • Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a significant nosocomial pathogen, particularly in intensive care unit (ICU) patients on mechanical ventilation.
  • Empiric therapy should incorporate agents active against S. maltophilia, such as newer fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
  • This highlights the need for targeted antibiotic strategies against this resistant organism.
Keywords:
Antimicrobial drug resistanceQuinolonesStenotrophomonas maltophiliaTrimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

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