Sphingobacterium spp

• S. faecium
• S. multivorum
• S. spiritovorum
• S. thalpophilum

Gram Stain

• Gram negative bacilli medium sized - nonfermenter

Clinical Significance

These organisms are found in a variety of environmental sources (soil, plants, foodstuffs, water sources). 

Although of low pathogenicity, they have been associated with bacteremia, septicemia, meningitis, pulmonary infections, cellulitis, and peritonitis, typically in immunocompromised patients.

They have been recovered from the sputum of cystic fibrosis patients.

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

These organisms are usually resistant to aminoglycosides and colistin, but typically susceptible to TMP/SMX and quinolones.

They have variable susceptibility to beta-lactam agents. 

Resistance to piperacillin-tazobactam, 3rd generation cephalosporins, and carbapenems can be due to production of extended spectrum beta-lactamases or metalloenzymes.