The identification of Pseudomonas cepacia and its occurrence in clinical material

The Journal of Applied Bacteriology
|October 1, 1986
PubMed

Insights

Pseudomonas cepacia is frequently found in clinical samples in the UK, yet often misidentified by labs. Precise identification is crucial due to its resistance to common treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical Microbiology
  • Bacteriology

Background:

  • Gram-negative non-fermentative bacteria are common in clinical settings.
  • Accurate identification of bacterial species is essential for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report the frequency and sources of Pseudomonas cepacia isolates in the UK.
  • To outline identification characteristics for Pseudomonas cepacia.
  • To review the clinical significance and resistance patterns of Pseudomonas cepacia.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 4840 bacterial strains submitted for identification over 19 years (ending Dec 1984).
  • Identification of 195 strains as Pseudomonas cepacia.
  • Review of isolation sources and phenotypic characteristics.

Main Results:

  • Pseudomonas cepacia constituted 4.0% (195/4840) of identified strains.
  • The organism was regularly encountered in UK clinical material.
  • Laboratories frequently experienced difficulties in identifying Pseudomonas cepacia.

Conclusions:

  • Pseudomonas cepacia is a significant clinical isolate in the UK.
  • Accurate identification is necessary due to the organism's resistance to common disinfectants and antimicrobial agents.
  • Standard identification methods may be insufficient for routine laboratory diagnosis of Pseudomonas cepacia.

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