Infectious Disease Compendium

Cronobacter

Microbiology

A gram-negative rod, part of the Enterobacteriaceae. Cronobacter sakazakii was Enterobacter sakazakii. There are also C. condimenti (was found in spiced meat), C. dublinensis, C. helveticus, C. malonaticus, C. muytjensii, C. pulveris, C. turicensis, C. universalis, C. zurichensis.

Epidemiologic Risks

Milk, both infant formula and the real deal from mom pumping (PubMed) as well as dry plant foods (spices and cereals), powdered milk, herbal teas, and starches. Also found in sewer water.

Often isolated in pre-term infants even of not on formula, but not in as high concentrations (PubMed).

Syndromes

Sepsis and meningitis in the neonates.

Sepsis in the old and infirm.

Treatment

Third-generation cephalosporins and quinolones and carbapenems (PubMed)

Resistant to rifampicin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, streptomycin, tetracycline, and ampicillin.

Notes

Last update: 03/05/19