Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in melioidosis: a case series from South India

Burkholderia pseudomallei is a Gram-negative, bipolar-staining bacillus and the causative agent of melioidosis, a potentially fatal infectious disease endemic to tropical and subtropical regions. We present a case series of three patients with culture-confirmed B. pseudomallei infection admitted to a tertiary care hospital, all of whom presented with septicaemia. Microbiological diagnosis was established using culture and confirmed via VITEK-2 Compact system and PCR targeting the T3SS1 gene. Timely initiation of appropriate antibiotics, ceftazidime or meropenem followed by eradication therapy with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to favourable outcomes.