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[Outbreak due to Serratia marcescens associated with intrinsic contamination of aqueous chlorhexidine]

Beatrice Hervé, May Chomali, Cecilia Gutiérrez

    Revista Chilena De Infectologia : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Chilena De Infectologia
    |December 4, 2015
    PubMed

    Insights

    A nosocomial outbreak of surgical site infections was caused by intrinsically contaminated alcohol-free chlorhexidine solution. This highlights the risk of contaminated antiseptic solutions in healthcare settings.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Epidemiology

    Context:

    • Serratia marcescens is a common cause of nosocomial infections.
    • Contaminated antiseptic solutions have previously been linked to outbreaks.
    • This study investigates a specific outbreak of S. marcescens infections.

    Purpose:

    • To identify the source and characteristics of a nosocomial outbreak of S. marcescens infections.
    • To determine the role of antiseptic solutions in the outbreak.
    • To implement control measures and prevent future occurrences.

    Summary:

    • An outbreak involving 33 patients with positive cultures due to Serratia marcescens was identified.
    • Epidemiological, microbiological, and molecular analyses confirmed intrinsic contamination of an alcohol-free chlorhexidine solution as the source.
    • The contamination led to surgical site infections, catheter insertion site infections, colonization, and pseudobacteremia.

    Impact:

    • Led to the hospital and national recall of the contaminated chlorhexidine solution.
    • Underscores the potential for intrinsic contamination of antiseptic solutions to cause significant nosocomial infections.
    • Emphasizes the need for stringent quality control of medical products to prevent healthcare-associated infections.

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