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Pseudomonas Wound Infection — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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EasyHealthcare-Associated InfectionsPseudomonas Wound InfectionSCE Infectious Diseases

A 55-year-old woman develops a wound infection after abdominal surgery. The wound discharge has a 'mousy' or 'grape-like' odour. Culture grows a Gram-negative rod identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. What clinical feature is most characteristic of Pseudomonas wound infections?

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Correct answer: E — Blue-green discolouration of wound dressings and a sweet grape-like odour from pyocyanin production

Pseudomonas aeruginosa produces two pigments: pyocyanin (blue-green) and pyoverdine (yellow-green fluorescent), giving wound discharge a characteristic blue-green colour and a sweet 'grape-like' or 'fruity' odour. This is clinically useful for bedside suspicion of Pseudomonal infection. Pseudomonas wound infections are common in burns, post-surgical wounds, and chronic wounds. Treatment requires anti-pseudomonal agents (Piperacillin/Tazobactam, Meropenem, Ciprofloxacin) guided by sensitivities.

Reference: NICE NG125 2020 – Surgical site infections; BSAC 2019