Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Infection Causes And Symptoms

Introduction

Ever wondered about a type of bacteria you might encounter in your daily life? Introducing to you, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). You can find it in soil, water, hospitals, your kitchen sink and even in your food! While it doesn’t harm healthy individuals, it poses a risk to those with weakened immune systems. This makes it an opportunistic pathogen, targeting those who are already vulnerable. 

Understanding the causes and symptoms of P. aeruginosa infection is important due to its opportunistic nature, as it can lead to several infections, especially in hospital settings where antibiotic resistance is a growing concern. This article will explore the causes and symptoms of P. aeruginosa infection. Recognising the signs of  P. aeruginosa infection is essential for timely intervention and effective management.^1,2,3,4,5

Causes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection

P. aeruginosa infection can arise from various sources and modes of transmission. The table below outlines the possible causes of P. aeruginosa infection, including examples.^1,4,6,7,8,9

Table 1: Causes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa along with examples. 

Common modes of transmission

P. aeruginosa infections can occur through two primary routes: healthcare-associated infection or community-acquired infection. 

Table 2: Definition of healthcare-associated infections and community-acquired infection.

Factors contributing to infection

Several factors contribute to the risk of P. aeruginosa infection. Individuals with an immunocompromised system are vulnerable to P. aeruginosa infection. For example, cystic fibrosis, burns, cancer, and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It is worth noting that P. aeruginosa is a significant contributor to illness and death in individuals with cystic fibrosis.¹⁰

Invasive medical procedures can provide entry points for the bacteria, such as surgeries and catheter insertions. Prolonged hospital stays increase exposure to healthcare-associated sources of infections, as described in Table 1. Contaminated sources in the healthcare/medical setting, as well as medical equipment, can serve as a direct transmission of P. aeruginosa. The factors discussed contribute to an increased risk of individuals contracting P. aeruginosa infection. 

Symptoms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection

P. aeruginosa can manifest across various body systems, each presenting distinct symptoms.^4,9,11,12,13

Bloodstream 

P. aeruginosa can cause bloodstream infections, and these infections are associated with a higher mortality rate compared to other bacterial bloodstream infections, with mortality rates ranging from 27 to 48%.¹⁴

Respiratory system

In the respiratory system, infections can lead to pneumonia characterised by fever, chills, cough, loss of appetite, rapid breathing and pulse.  

Skin and soft tissue

• P. aeruginosa is frequently identified as the leading pathogen causing injection in burn injuries.¹¹ Wound infections are characterised by a yellow-green colour with an unpleasant odour and may progress to a blue-purple shade as the infection worsens. 
• Infections affecting skin and soft tissue can result in cellulitis, characterised by redness, swelling and warmth. 

Urinary tract 

P. aeruginosa can cause urinary tract infections or catheter-associated urinary infections, often presenting discomfort, urgency and frequent urination. 

Systematic symptoms

Systematic symptoms may include sepsis or septic shock, marked by shivering, hypotension, rapid heartbeat, confusion and either fever or hypothermia. 

Ocular symptoms

Ocular symptoms may include:

• conjunctivitis is characterised by redness, itching, swelling, watery eyes and eye discharge. 
• Corneal ulcers (also known as keratitis) 

Gastrointestinal symptoms 

• Diarrhoea 
• Nausea and vomiting 

Timely intervention and treatment are crucial in managing P. aeruginosa infections to prevent complications and promote recovery. 

Summary 

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacteria that can cause infections in different parts of the body. While it typically doesn't pose a significant risk to healthy individuals, it can become a problem for those with weakened immune systems. It's found in places like hospitals and can enter the body through wounds, tubes, or breathing tubes. When it infects someone, it can cause problems like pneumonia (lung infection), skin infections, urinary tract infections (infections in the bladder), and even infections in the bloodstream. These infections can make people feel very sick, with symptoms like fever, coughing, and pain. It's important to catch these infections early because they can become serious if left untreated. It's crucial to recognise and treat Pseudomonas infections early to avoid serious health problems.