skip to main content

Melioidosis eradication therapy duration — DTM&H MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateTropical Bacterial InfectionsMelioidosis eradication therapy durationDTM&H

A 60-year-old Australian Aboriginal man with end-stage renal disease on haemodialysis develops fever and blood cultures grow Burkholderia pseudomallei. He lives in the Northern Territory. What duration of eradication-phase oral therapy is recommended after completing IV intensive treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — At least 3 months

Melioidosis eradication phase requires at least 3 months of oral co-trimoxazole (first-line) or amoxicillin-clavulanate (if intolerant). Shorter courses have unacceptable relapse rates up to 23%. Renal-dose adjustment is required for haemodialysis patients. The Northern Territory of Australia has some of the highest melioidosis incidence globally.

Reference: Darwin Melioidosis Guidelines; Currie et al., CID