Unusual presentation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections: a review

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic, gram negative bacillus that causes serious hospital acquired infections. However, it also causes infections with unusual presentations which are acquired in a non-hospital environment. This report will discuss the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and therapy of this uncommon infection, such as: 1) Pseudomonas folliculitis: a superficial or deep bacterial infection associated with the use of public hot tubs, whirlpools and swimming pools. 2) Invasive external otitis: an infection that can progress to skull base mostly associated to elderly diabetic patients. It is usually secondary to aural irrigation with contaminated water. 3) Pseudomonas osteomyelitis: an infection usually associated with nail puncture wounds especially if wearing tennis shoes. 4) Toe with infection: mostly associated with individuals using topical antibacterial agents. 5) Green nail syndrome: a non tender paronychia lesion that appears most often in persons whose hands are constantly exposed to water, soaps and detergents or are subject to mechanical trauma. 6) Corneal ulcer keratitis: mostly associated with the use of soft lenses, eye drops, mascara or contaminated whirlpools. This condition may terminate in panophthalmitis. 7) Endocarditis: most commonly associated with intravenous drug addicts.