Achromobacter Xylosoxidans an Emerging Opportunistic Nosocomial Pathogen: A Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Achromobacter is a rare Gram-negative bacillus which is found in soil and water but is emerging as cause of nosocomial infections. Patients with devices like central venous catheter, ventilator, and implants are at higher risk of developing these infections as compared to the normal population. Its ability to produce biofilm can result in development of resistance to many commonly used antibiotics making these infections difficult to treat.
Aims: To study the demographic profile, comorbidities associated and the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Achromobacter xylosoxidans infection in our center.
Study Design: This cross-sectional retrospective study was done in the department of microbiology. All the clinical samples received in the microbiology laboratory from September 2018 to August 2022 from which Achromobacter xylosoxidans was isolated, were included.
Material and Methods: Lab records and Vitek 2 compact database (bioMérieux, Marcy l’Étoile, France) were verified to obtain the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of each isolate. Case records were studied to examine the demographic profile of the patients.
Results: 25 samples grew Achromobacter species. 48% of isolates were obtained from blood sample. 50% of the patients had one or more comorbid conditions. 80% of the patients had device in situ.
Conclusion: Though uncommon organisms like Achromobacter species are getting reported as a pathogen in many nosocomial infections, many physicians are still not aware this. Only timely diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment will reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by this organism.