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Xanthomonas maltophilia: an emerging nosocomial pathogen

W F Marshall1, M R Keating, J P Anhalt

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.

Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|September 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Xanthomonas maltophilia, a potentially pathogenic bacterium, is increasingly isolated in clinical settings. This organism exhibits resistance to many common antibiotics, contributing to its growing prevalence.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical microbiology
  • Infectious diseases
  • Antimicrobial resistance

Background:

  • Xanthomonas maltophilia is a potentially pathogenic bacterium.
  • Nosocomial (hospital-acquired) colonization and infection are common clinical manifestations.
  • The incidence of X. maltophilia isolation is increasing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the rising incidence of Xanthomonas maltophilia.
  • To discuss the potential reasons for increased isolation, including antimicrobial selective pressure.
  • To describe the antimicrobial resistance patterns of X. maltophilia.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on Xanthomonas maltophilia epidemiology and resistance.
  • Analysis of clinical isolation trends.
  • Review of antimicrobial susceptibility data.

Main Results:

  • Xanthomonas maltophilia is a significant nosocomial pathogen.
  • The prevalence of X. maltophilia is increasing.
  • The organism demonstrates resistance to a wide range of commonly used antibiotics, including cephalosporins, aztreonam, antipseudomonal penicillins, imipenem, and quinolones.

Conclusions:

  • The rise in Xanthomonas maltophilia infections is a growing clinical concern.
  • Antimicrobial resistance is a key factor in the increasing incidence of X. maltophilia.
  • Effective treatment strategies are challenged by the organism's resistance profile.

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