solation of Ochrobactrum anthropi from Cerebrospinal Fluid: Insights from a Unique Case in an ICU Setting

Ochrobactrum anthropi (O. anthropi), previously classified as Achromobacter and designated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as group Vd, is known to cause severe infections even in immunocompetent individuals without underlying conditions. In index case, the patient presented with persistent symptoms for 5-6 months, including headaches, vertigo while walking, blurred vision in her right eye, hearing loss in her right ear and balance issues. Following a thorough diagnostic work-up, the patient underwent a Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt procedure, during which Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) was collected and sent to the microbiology laboratory for culture. Microbiological investigation showed the growth of lactose non fermenting bacteria on MacConkey Agar (MA). Subsequent biochemical testing identified the organism as O. anthropi. This is notable as this bacterium is rarely found in CSF, marking this as potentially the third reported case. Most instances of infection stem from nosocomial or hospitalacquired sources, attributed to the organism’s ability to adhere to various surfaces. Recently, the pathogenicity of O. anthropi has increased due to its acquired resistance to multiple antibiotics. The patient was treated with a combination of fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides and beta-lactam antibiotics. Ensuring the appropriate use of antibiotics through susceptibility testing is essential for effective treatment and in preventing the development of resistance.