Stenotrophomonas maltophilia: an emerging multidrug-resistant opportunistic pathogen in the immunocompromised host

Emily Baumrin1,2, Evan W Piette3, Robert G Micheletti4

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

BMJ Case Reports
|December 23, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a multidrug-resistant pathogen, can cause severe skin infections. This case highlights the importance of considering S. maltophilia in immunocompromised patients with skin lesions.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Dermatology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a multidrug-resistant opportunistic pathogen with increasing prevalence.
  • While often associated with pulmonary infections, S. maltophilia can manifest in skin and soft tissue infections.

Observation:

  • A case report of a male patient in his 30s with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
  • The patient presented with a solitary, tender purpuric patch on the skin.

Findings:

  • The skin lesion rapidly progressed, indicating a severe infection.
  • Skin biopsy confirmed the presence of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.

Implications:

  • Cutaneous manifestations of S. maltophilia should be considered in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of S. maltophilia skin infections are crucial for patient outcomes.

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