Pseudomonas infections

[Magaret]

Any of several types of the gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can infect different parts of the body, particularly in people who have serious medical problems or who are hospitalized.

Infections range from mild external ones (affecting the ear or hair follicles) to serious internal infections (affecting the lungs, bloodstream, or heart valves).
Symptoms vary depending on which area of the body is infected.
Identifying the bacteria in a sample taken from infected tissue confirms the diagnosis.
Antibiotics are applied externally for external infections or given intravenously for more serious, internal infections.

(See also Overview of Bacteria.)
Pseudomonas bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are present throughout the world in soil and water. These bacteria favor moist areas, such as sinks, toilets, inadequately chlorinated swimming pools and hot tubs, and outdated or inactivated antiseptic solutions. Occasionally, these bacteria are present in the armpits and genital area of healthy people.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections range from minor external infections to serious, life-threatening disorders. Infections occur more often and tend to be more severe in people who

Are weakened (debilitated) by certain severe disorders
Have diabetes or cystic fibrosis
Are hospitalized
Have a disorder that weakens the immune system, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
Take drugs that suppress the immune system, such as those used to treat cancer or to prevent rejection of transplanted organs

These bacteria can infect the blood, skin, bones, ears, eyes, urinary tract, heart valves, and lungs, as well as wounds (such as burns, injuries, or wounds made during surgery). Use of medical devices, such as catheters inserted into the bladder or a vein, breathing tubes, and mechanical ventilators, increase the risk of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. These infections are commonly acquired in hospitals. In hospitals, the bacteria are often present in sinks, antiseptic solutions, and containers used to collect urine from a bladder catheter.