Pseudomonas infection
About Pseudomonas infection
Pseudomonas is a bacteria that can cause a variety of infections. These infections can affect almost every organ system. It often affects individuals whose immune systems have been compromised due to other diseases. Pseudomonas can be found in every imaginable environmental locations, but is most commonly found in moist environments and in soil. All age groups are affected and infections are frequently life-threatening.Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the organ system involved. Symptoms may include fever, low blood pressure, jaundice, joint pain, skin redness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and ear pain. Other symptoms may include chest pain, abdominal pain, burning with urination, cough or eye pain and discharge.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical will be performed. Blood and possibly imaging tests may be performed depending on the symptoms and the affected body parts. Ultimately, the diagnosis will be made based on blood, urine or sputum cultures.Common tests: Blood culture, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), ESR, Sputum culture, Urine Culture.
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment will vary depending on the location and extent of the infections. Treatment involves the use of a variety of antibiotics, often a combination of intravenous (IV) and oral antibiotics. Pseudomonas is a bacteria that is known to be resistant to many antibiotics so often a very strong antibiotic or two are chosen until the cultures return and demonstrate the most appropriate antibiotic. Length of treatment is dependent on the location and extent of the infection.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Family Practice · Infectious Disease Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Pseudomonas infection.