Achromobacter Septicemia in a Premature Clinical and Bacteriological Aspects

Abstract

Summary A case of Achromobacter septicemia in a premature is described. This normally non pathogenic organism probably infected the infant through an aerosol from an infected humidifier. Bacteriological sampling shows that such an aerosol can be heavily contaminated. Disinfection of the humidifier is shown to be an effective preventive measure. However, the water containers of most incubators are quite difficult to disinfect effectively.

Achromobacter spp. bacteremia outbreak related to contaminated furosemide ampoules

“…In one of the earliest reports in 1960, Linde et al, in his analysis of 205 cases of congenital heart surgery, described 2 Achromobacter endocarditis due to contaminated heart-lung machine [10]. Aerosolization of the organism resulting in pneumonia, meningitis and secondary bacteremia has also been described in new born units [11,12]. Nosocomial bacteremias due to Achromobacter due to contaminated environmental sources, devices or IV preparations are summarized in Table 3.…”

Room Humidifiers and Hospitals

“…In addition, die organisms are rather resistant to chemical disinfection; and die construction of both portable and built-in humidifiers renders dieir thorough disinfection nearly impossible in many installations. 4 Observations suggest that serious illness, in contrast with so-called Monday illness, is more frequently observed in immune compromised individuals exposed to die organisms from humidifiers. Much emphasis has been placed on the role of humidifiers as sources of disease in newborns, particularly premature infants.…”