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Published on: October 15, 2013
Identification and Characterization of Burkholderia pseudomallei from Localized Pyogenic Infections in Eastern India:
Prashanth Purushotham1, Srujana Mohanty1, Preetam Chappity2
11Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India.
Abstract:
Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is increasingly recognized in several regions of the globe. The present study was performed to identify and determine the frequency of B. pseudomallei infection in localized pyogenic lesions in eastern India and describe their clinico-microbiological profile. Pus samples were subjected to standard microbiological techniques for isolation and identification of various bacteria, including B. pseudomallei, which were confirmed by PCR. The clinical and demographic details of patients with melioidosis and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of B. pseudomallei isolates were analyzed. Of 245 samples, 126 (51.4%) were culture positive, yielding 137 isolates. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant pathogen accounting for 54 (39.4%) isolates, followed by B. pseudomallei accounting for 34 (24.8%) isolates. The mean age of the patients with melioidosis was 39.1 years, with males (24/34; 70.6%) being affected more than females (10/34; 29.4%). A majority of the patients were laborers (12/34; 35.3), followed by homemakers (8/34; 23.5%). Head and neck abscesses (35.3%) were the most common presentation followed by pyogenic lesions of the musculoskeletal system (32.3%) and deep organ abscesses (23.5%). Clinical resolution of infection was observed in 31 (91.2%) patients, relapse in two (5.9%) patients, and death in one (2.9%) patient, respectively. Susceptibility testing revealed all B. pseudomallei isolates to be completely susceptible to the following antimicrobials: ceftazidime, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, imipenem, and doxycycline, with one (2.9%) resistant to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Burkholderia pseudomallei is an emerging etiological agent of localized pyogenic infections in eastern India, affecting a mainly adult male population. An increased vigilance along with appropriate diagnostic techniques helps in accurate diagnosis facilitating appropriate therapy.
Insights
Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is an emerging infection in eastern India. This study found B. pseudomallei in localized pyogenic lesions, highlighting its clinical and microbiological profile in the region.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Melioidosis, a serious infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is increasingly recognized globally.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence and characteristics of B. pseudomallei in localized pyogenic infections in eastern India.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and determine the frequency of B. pseudomallei in localized pyogenic lesions in eastern India.
- To describe the clinico-microbiological profile and antimicrobial susceptibility of B. pseudomallei isolates.
Main Methods:
- Pus samples analyzed using standard microbiological techniques.
- B. pseudomallei identification confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
- Clinical, demographic, and antimicrobial susceptibility data were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Out of 245 samples, 137 bacterial isolates were obtained, with B. pseudomallei accounting for 24.8% (34 isolates).
- The mean age of melioidosis patients was 39.1 years, with a male predominance (70.6%).
- Head and neck abscesses were the most common presentation; all isolates were susceptible to ceftazidime, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, imipenem, and doxycycline.
Conclusions:
- Burkholderia pseudomallei is an emerging cause of localized pyogenic infections in eastern India.
- The study highlights the importance of diagnostic vigilance for accurate identification and appropriate treatment of melioidosis.
- Effective treatment options are available, with high clinical resolution rates observed.
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