Burkholderia gladioli

Gram Stain

• Gram negative straight/slightly curved bacilli - nonfermenter (aerobic)

Clinical Significance

This organism is a plant pathogen that has been associated with respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis and chronic granulomatous disease patients.

It can especially be problematic post lung transplant resulting in pulmonary deterioration or abscess formation.

It has rarely been associated with sepsis, embolic disease, mediastinitis, endophthalmitis, osteomyelitis and skin/soft tissue infections typically in patients with underlying immunodeficiencies.

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

B. gladioli tends to be more susceptible than B. cepacia complex including to aminoglycosides.