Injection site abscesses caused by Mycobacterium chelonei

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Subcutaneous abscesses are a potential complication of injection practices.
• Nosocomial infections pose a significant threat in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate an outbreak of subcutaneous abscesses among student nurse assistants.
• To identify the causative agent and source of the infection.
• To understand the clinical presentation and management of these mycobacterial infections.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case review of student nurse assistants with injection site abscesses.
• Microbiological isolation and identification of Mycobacterium chelonae.
• Epidemiological investigation to determine the source of contamination.

Main Results:

• Thirteen student nurse assistants developed subcutaneous abscesses at injection sites.
• Mycobacterium chelonae was identified as the causative pathogen.
• Contaminated 0.9 N saline solution used for practice injections was identified as the source.
• Infections presented with long incubation periods (6-16 weeks) and required surgical intervention.
• Complications included scarring, keloid formation, and persistent pain.

Conclusions:

• Penetrating trauma is a key factor in cutaneous mycobacterial infections.
• Mycobacterium chelonae is an emerging nosocomial pathogen.
• Strict adherence to aseptic techniques and proper sterilization of medical supplies is crucial to prevent such outbreaks.