When Antibiotics Fail
Two Fatal Cases of Achromobacter xylosoxidans Infections in Hospitalized Patients
Keywords:
Pneumonia, Healthcare-Associated Pneumonia, Pneumonia, Bacterial, COVID-19, Bacteremia, MicrobiologyAbstract
Introduction: Achromobacter xylosoxidans is an opportunistic gram-negative bacterium that can cause severe infections in patients with underlying diseases and healthcare settings. This bacterium is known for its high resistance to antibiotics, presenting a challenge in selecting appropriate treatment options. Clinical cases: In the first case, a patient with COVID-19 and acute respiratory failure developed pneumonia, and A. xylosoxidans was isolated from the respiratory samples. Despite treatment with multiple antibiotics, the patient’s condition worsened and died. In the second case, a post-cholecystectomy patient developed A. xylosoxidans bacteremia that did not respond to several antibiotic treatments. Despite efforts to control the infection, the patient died. Conclusion: These cases highlight the importance of early identification and appropriate treatment of A. xylosoxidans infections in patients with underlying diseases and healthcare settings. The antibiotic resistance of this bacterium underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to infection management, including the early identification and implementation of infection control measures in the hospital environment. Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and clinical impact of this bacterium, and to inform strategies for preventing and controlling its spread in healthcare
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