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Published on: December 20, 2018
Wound infection with aerogenic Aeromonas strains: a review of twenty-seven cases
R D Isaacs1, S D Paviour, D E Bunker
1Department of Medicine, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
Abstract:
Aeromonas spp. have been implicated in a wide spectrum of human disease including wound infection. A review is made of local experience of 27 wound infections from which aerogenic strains of Aeromonas were recovered; of these, Aeromonas was isolated in pure culture from five infections. Twenty-five infections were related to trauma and were community acquired, while two were probably nosocomial. Of the 25 community acquired infections, 16 were associated with contamination by soil and one with water. Twenty-six cases were surgically debrided or a limb or digit amputated, but in only one case was amputation performed because of uncontrolled infection. Fifteen patients received antibiotics inappropriate for the infection, yet the outcome was uniformly good. This series is discussed with a review of the English language literature. Aeromonas is most likely to be isolated when there is contamination of a wound by soil or water; adequate surgical debridement is probably of primary importance.
Insights
Aeromonas bacteria can cause wound infections, often linked to soil or water contamination. Prompt surgical cleaning is crucial for recovery, even with incorrect antibiotic use.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Wound Care
Background:
- Aeromonas species are recognized pathogens capable of causing diverse human infections.
- Wound infections represent a significant clinical challenge, particularly those acquired in the community.
- Understanding the epidemiology and management of Aeromonas-related wound infections is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review local experience with Aeromonas wound infections.
- To analyze the sources and outcomes of these infections.
- To discuss findings in the context of existing literature.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 27 cases of Aeromonas wound infections.
- Analysis of infection source (community-acquired vs. nosocomial).
- Review of treatment modalities and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Aeromonas was isolated from 27 wound infections, predominantly community-acquired (25 cases) and linked to soil (16 cases) or water (1 case) contamination.
- Surgical debridement or amputation was performed in 26 cases; amputation for uncontrolled infection occurred in only one case.
- Despite 15 patients receiving inappropriate antibiotics, all outcomes were favorable.
Conclusions:
- Aeromonas wound infections are frequently associated with environmental contamination, particularly soil and water.
- Effective surgical debridement appears to be the most critical factor in managing these infections.
- Outcomes are generally good, even with suboptimal antibiotic therapy, highlighting the importance of surgical intervention.
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