A Pseudoepidemic of Rhodotorula rubra: A Marker for Microbial Contamination of the Bronchoscope

Margaret E. Hagan, Stephen A. Klotz, William Bartholomew, Lonna Potter, Michael Nelson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

Rhodotorula rubra was isolated from bronchoscopy specimens from 11 patients. An investigation of the bronchoscopy equipment and the bronchoscopy suite revealed contamination of the suction channel with R rubra, as well as potentially pathogenic bacteria. Disinfection control methods included gas sterilization of the bronchoscope and the institution of an alcohol and air flush through the suction channel to allow complete drying of the scope between each patient use. We have had no further isolates of R rubra from bronchoscopy specimens since these measures were instituted, and repeat cultures from the suction channel have been negative.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)727-728
Number of pages2
JournalInfection Control & Hospital Epidemiology
Volume16
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1995

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Epidemiology
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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