Advances in understanding Stenotrophomonas maltophilia: From epidemiology to clinical practices

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is recognized as an important nosocomial pathogen, contributing to significant healthcare challenges due to its broad resistance to common antibiotics. The mortality associated with S. maltophilia infections can be alarmingly high, ranging from 21% to 69%. Studies indicate that the increased prevalence of resistance, particularly due to the widespread use of quinolones, exacerbates the challenges in treatment. While the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has put forth several regimen recommendations—such as using trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) in mild cases and the combination of TMP-SMX and minocycline for moderate to severe infections—alternative antibiotics are being sought due to rising TMP-SMX resistance and adverse effects.

This Research Topics aims to delve into understanding the various dimensions of S. maltophilia infections. By investigating the mortality risk factors specific to pneumonia caused by this pathogen and examining how antimicrobial susceptibility varies with geography, testing method, and study periods, the research seeks to inform better empirical treatment plans. Questions surrounding conditions such as hematologic malignancy and its associated risk factors, the role of polymicrobial infections in mortality, as well as the impact of prior antibiotic use are central to this inquiry. Such insights will facilitate the development of more precise and contextually applicable treatment guidelines for clinicians facing the challenges posed by S. maltophilia.

To gather further insights in this complex field, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Identification and characterization of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.
- Examination of the epidemiology of S. maltophilia infections.
- Exploration of the clinical features and risks in infected patients.
- Analysis of the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.
- Development of optimal therapy strategies for S. maltophilia.
- Investigation into the proteomic and genomic indicators of resistance.
- Understanding the mechanisms behind resistance development.
- Clinical approaches to managing antibiotic resistance in these infections.