
What Is Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia?

Not a real superbug
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.
I have read through your query in detail.
Stenotrophomonas (Pseudomonas) maltophilia is an aerobic gram-negative bacillus that is found in various fluids found in the hospital setting. Infection by this organism is rarely seen in humans with a well functioning immune system.
Studies have shown that S. maltophilia is consistently susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMZ). If TMP-SMZ cannot be used, the organism is usually sensitive to meropenem, minocycline, respiratory quinolones, or colistin/polymyxin B.
There have been many news articles calling S maltophilia as the newer emerging superbug however this is debatable in the current times with advancing medical research. A superbug is an organism that is difficult to treat and spreads easily. It is harder to accept the claim that S maltophilia deserves the superbug status because this organism accounts for fewer than 1% of bloodstream infections. Concerning response to treatment, the infection is controlled in most patients with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole with a rare incidence of drug resistance.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek

Answered by

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
