[Serratia]

Abstract

Serratia species, in particular, Serratia marcescens frequently causes bloodstream infections. Recently, several outbreaks of nosocomial bloodstream infections due to S. marcescens have been reported in Japan. Although Serratia is an opportunistic pathogen, the organism can develop endotoxin shock and multiple organ failure because of being gram-negative rod when a number of bacteria invade the bloodstream. Serratia in the intestinal tract can invade bloodstream endogenously in compromised hosts. However, the possible causes of an outbreak are contamination of antiseptics, and consequent contamination of transfusion. To prevent outbreaks of S. marcescens bloodstream infection, management of antiseptics and transfusion in addition to contact precaution should be taken.