Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 16, 2026

Author Spotlight: Photodynamic Therapy as a Novel Approach to Induce Petite Colonies in Drug-Resistant Candida for Antifungal Research
Published on: March 29, 2024
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.
Abstract:
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a multidrug-resistant opportunistic pathogen with increasing prevalence and high morbidity and mortality. In addition to its classic association with pulmonary infections, S. maltophilia can cause skin and soft tissue infections with varying clinical presentations. We describe the case of a man in his 30s with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia who presented with a solitary patch of faint but tender purpura found to have rapidly progressive S. maltophilia infection diagnosed on skin biopsy. S. maltophilia infection should be considered in the cutaneous evaluation of the immunocompromised host.
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.
More Related Videos
11:32Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria
Published on: February 23, 2014
08:48Bio-energetics Investigation of Candida albicans Using Real-time Extracellular Flux Analysis
Published on: March 19, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Fungal Group Zygomycota
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include: