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Updated: Aug 1, 2025
Identification of Rare Bacterial Pathogens by 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS
Published on: July 11, 2016
First nosocomial outbreak of SME-4-producing Serratia marcescens in South America
Juana Vega1, Carlos H Rodriguez2, Ignacio Viscardi3
1Servicio de Microbiologia, Departamento de Bioquimica, Hospital General 601-Hospital Militar Central "Cir My Dr Cosme Argerich", Argentina; Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, UBA, Argentina.
Abstract:
Carbapenemase-producing-Serratia marcescens isolates, although infrequent, are considered important nosocomial pathogens due to their intrinsic resistance to polymyxins, which limits therapeutic options. We describe a nosocomial outbreak of SME-4-producing S. marcescens in Buenos Aires city which, in our knowledge, represents the first one in South America.
Insights
Carbapenemase-producing Serratia marcescens, a rare but dangerous pathogen, can resist polymyxins, limiting treatment. This study details the first reported outbreak of SME-4-producing S. marcescens in South America, highlighting a significant public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Carbapenemase-producing Serratia marcescens (S. marcescens) are infrequent but significant nosocomial pathogens.
- Intrinsic resistance to polymyxins in these bacteria severely restricts treatment choices.
- Nosocomial infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms pose a growing global health threat.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and characterize a nosocomial outbreak of carbapenemase-producing S. marcescens.
- To identify the specific carbapenemase type involved in the outbreak.
- To document the first occurrence of such an outbreak in South America.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance and laboratory investigation of a nosocomial outbreak.
- Identification of S. marcescens isolates.
- Detection and characterization of carbapenemase genes, including SME-4.
Main Results:
- An outbreak of SME-4-producing S. marcescens was identified in Buenos Aires city.
- This represents the first documented outbreak of SME-4-producing S. marcescens in South America.
- The findings underscore the emergence of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales in the region.
Conclusions:
- The emergence of SME-4-producing S. marcescens highlights the need for enhanced surveillance and infection control measures.
- This outbreak signifies a critical development in antimicrobial resistance in South America.
- Urgent strategies are required to combat the spread of carbapenemase-producing pathogens.
