Identifying and controlling a multiresistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa outbreak in a Latin-American cancer centre and its associated risk factors

Braz J Infect Dis. 2009 Apr;13(2):99-103. doi: 10.1590/s1413-86702009000200005.

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important and frightening microorganism for patients suffering from cancer. Multiresistant P. aeruginosa (MRPA) may appear as a consequence of exposure to multiple antibiotics or from a breakdown in infection control practices. This article reports an MRPA outbreak in a cancer treatment centre and the consequent case control study. Mechanical ventilation was identified as being the main risk factor for developing MRPA colonisation or infection; molecular analysis confirmed the outbreak. A multifaceted strategy was adopted, involving reinforcing hand-washing practices, contact isolation, antibiotic restriction and suction devices for mechanically-ventilated patients. MRPA was controlled and the outbreak ended. Such strategy may be effective in controlling MRPS in low-resource environments amongst high risk cancer patients.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cancer Care Facilities*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Colombia / epidemiology
  • Cross Infection / epidemiology
  • Cross Infection / microbiology*
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pseudomonas Infections / epidemiology
  • Pseudomonas Infections / microbiology*
  • Pseudomonas Infections / prevention & control
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa / drug effects
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa / isolation & purification*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors