Emerging Infections by Pantoea species: A Potential Threat, Clinical Implication and Antibiogram

Background: Pantoea species, traditionally considered opportunistic pathogens, have emerged as significant causes of infections, particularly in neonatal and immune compromised populations. This study aims to investigate the prevalence, clinical impact, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Pantoea species over a five-year period in a tertiary care center located in the Konkan region of the Western Ghats, Maharashtra. Material and Methods: Detailed records of 40 Pantoea isolates, primarily from blood cultures, were gathered from various clinical samples. The study assessed the yearly trend of Pantoea infectios, identified associated risk factors, and outlined antimicrobial susceptibility profile. Results: The majority of isolates (87%) were from blood samples, with significant occurrences in neonates with underline predisposing factors like low birth weight, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), and meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). The study observed a marked decrease in cases during the COVID-19 lockdown period (2020-2021), followed by a resurgence in 2022. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed decreased sensitivity to third-generation cephalosporins Piperacillin Tazobactam, and Meropenem, indicating a trend towards multidrug resistance. Conclusion: The finding underscore the emerging threat of Pantoea infections and the need for vigilant antimicrobial stewardship. Monitoring environmental factors, such as the use of Pantoea species as biofertilizers and traditional practices like giving rice water to newborns, is crucial to prevent potential large-scale outbreaks. Futures sequencing based studies are recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the epidemiology and resistance mechanisms of Pantoea species in this region.