Antibiotic-resistant group JK bacteria in hospitals
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Abstract:
The organisms designated as Center for Disease Control group JK are gram-positive rods that have previously been described as causing serious infection in compromised hosts. Four years of hospital experience with this group of organisms in Clinical Center patients was reviewed. Studies were also undertaken on specific wards to determine frequency of occurrence and distribution patterns. Inguinal cultures taken on two wards showed that 30 to 35% of patients were colonized with group JK and that newly admitted patients may already be colonized at the time of admission. Colonization was shown to persist for weeks and sometimes months. Isolates obtained throughout the hospital were predominantly from cancer patients, particularly in wounds, abscesses, and drainage sites. Most blood isolates were from granulocytopenic patients with hematological malignancies.
Insights
Center for Disease Control group JK (Enterococcus gallinarum and Enterococcus casseliflavus) are gram-positive rods causing serious infections in immunocompromised patients. This study found high colonization rates in hospitalized patients, particularly those with cancer.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Center for Disease Control group JK are gram-positive rods known to cause severe infections in immunocompromised individuals.
- Understanding the prevalence and transmission of these organisms in hospital settings is crucial for infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review hospital experiences with CDC group JK organisms over four years.
- To determine the frequency, distribution, and colonization patterns of CDC group JK in Clinical Center patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of hospital records for patients with CDC group JK infections.
- Prospective studies including inguinal cultures on specific hospital wards.
- Analysis of isolate sources and patient demographics.
Main Results:
- 30-35% of patients on studied wards were colonized with CDC group JK.
- Colonization was observed in newly admitted patients and persisted for weeks to months.
- Isolates were predominantly found in cancer patients, especially in wounds, abscesses, and drainage sites.
- Bloodstream infections were most common in granulocytopenic patients with hematological malignancies.
Conclusions:
- CDC group JK organisms frequently colonize hospitalized patients, including upon admission.
- Cancer patients, particularly those with hematological malignancies and granulocytopenia, are at high risk for infection.
- Effective infection control strategies are needed to manage CDC group JK colonization and infection in healthcare settings.