Characterization of a Tsukamurella pseudo-outbreak by phenotypic tests, 16S rRNA sequencing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, and metabolic footprinting

J Clin Microbiol. 2013 Jan;51(1):334-8. doi: 10.1128/JCM.02845-12. Epub 2012 Nov 7.

Abstract

We report a pseudo-outbreak of Tsukamurella due to improperly wrapped scissors used for processing of tissue specimens. A polyphasic approach, involving biochemical, genetic, and metabolomic techniques, was used in the laboratory investigation. This report highlights that early recognition of pseudo-outbreaks is important in preventing unnecessary and incorrect treatment of patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Actinomycetales / genetics
  • Actinomycetales / isolation & purification*
  • Actinomycetales / physiology
  • Actinomycetales Infections / epidemiology*
  • Adult
  • Bacterial Typing Techniques
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA
  • Young Adult