Description Pseudomonas is a ty...
Description
Pseudomonas is a type of 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 bacteria exist all around us. But they are most commonly found in moist environments and in soil. All age groups are affected and infections can be life-threatening.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the organ system involved and the health of the person's immune system. 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
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
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 cultures of blood, urine, sputum or other fluids.
Tests:
Blood culture, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), Sputum culture, Urine Culture
Other Specific Tests: CT scan, MRI, lumbar puncture (if central nervous system involvement suspected)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine
Workup:
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 cultures of blood, urine, sputum or other fluids.
Tests:
Blood culture, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), Sputum culture, Urine Culture
Other Specific Tests: CT scan, MRI, lumbar puncture (if central nervous system involvement suspected)
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine
Treatment
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 bacteria have become resistant to many antibiotics. So, initially providers prescribe one or two very strong antibiotics until culture results show which antibiotics are most appropriate. Length of treatment is dependent on the location and extent of the infection.