Emerging Opportunistic Pathogen: Ralstonia pickettii

A Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacillus

Key Points:

• Ralstonia pickettii is an emerging opportunistic pathogen.
• It is a non-fermenting Gram-negative bacillus.
• Pickettii can survive in hospital disinfectants.
• It is found in moist environments such as soils.

WEB Ralstonia pickettii is another non-fermenting Gram-negative bacillus that is emerging as an opportunistic pathogen. Pickettii has the ability to survive in hospital disinfectants including chlorhexidine and ethacridine lactate, making it a difficult organism to eradicate. This ability, coupled with its increasing prevalence, makes Ralstonia pickettii a serious concern for healthcare professionals.

Ralstonia pickettii is a Betaproteobacteria species found in moist environments such as soils. It is typically acquired through contact with contaminated water or soil, and can cause a variety of infections including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections. Pickettii infections are often difficult to treat due to its resistance to antibiotics. In addition, Pickettii can form biofilms, which make it even more difficult to eradicate.

The emergence of Ralstonia pickettii as an opportunistic pathogen is a reminder of the importance of infection control measures in healthcare settings. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential for Pickettii infections, and should take steps to prevent its spread. This includes proper hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment, and the proper cleaning and disinfection of medical equipment.