Sphingomonas spp

• S. koreensis
• S. paucimobilis
• S. parapaucimobilis
• S. sanguinis

Gram Stain

• Gram negative bacilli medium to long - nonfermenter

Clinical Significance

These organisms are found in a variety of environmental and water sources.

Although of low pathogenicity, they have been associated with both nosocomial and community acquired infections including bacteremia, septicemia, meningitis, pneumonia, CAPD peritonitis, cellulitis, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, wound and urinary tract infections, typically, but not exclusively, in immunocompromised patients.

Nosocomial outbreaks related to contamination of hemodialysis solutions, contaminated water systems, or tissue for transplantation have occurred.

 

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

These organisms are susceptible to aminoglycosides, TMP/SMX, tetracyclines, and anti-pseudomonal beta-lactams.

Susceptibility to other beta-lactam agents and quinolones is variable.

They are resistant to colistin.

Empiric Therapy
TMP/SMX
or
Doxycycline
or
Piperacillin-tazobactam