Infections Caused by Pseudomonas maltophilia

Abstract

•Pseudomonas maltophilia (Xanthomonas maltophilia)is a frequently isolated commensal that is gaining increasing recognition as an opportunistic pathogen in debilitated hosts. We report three unusual infections due toP maltophiliathat illustrate the ability of the organism to cause life-threatening illness. We describe a case of postoperative meningitis, a case of recurrent bacteremia complicated by ecthyma gangrenosum, and a case of native valve endocarditis in a drug addict. Because of frequent isolation from noninfected sites, the pathogenic potential ofP maltophiliamay be overlooked. The notable resistance of this organism is commonly used βlactam and aminoglycoside antibiotics may complicate therapy. (Arch Intern Med1987;147:1672-1674)