Edwardsiella spp

• E. hoshinae
• E. ictaluri
• E. tarda

Gram Stain

• Gram negative bacilli - fermenter

Clinical Significance

These organisms are widely distributed in nature, especially fresh water environments. They are found in cold-blooded animals (reptiles/fish).

Typically only E. tarda causes human infections. It has been associated with bacteremia, hepatic abscesses, peritonitis, cholecystitis, meningitis, osteomyelitis, gynecological infections (salpingitis, amnionitis, tubal/ovarian abscesses), and skin/soft tissue infections typically following aquatic accidents.

It can cause self-limited gastroenteritis.

It may be co-isolated with water borne pathogens (Aeromonas and Shewanella spp).

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

These organisms are usually susceptible to ampicillin, cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, quinolones, tetracyclines, and TMP/SMX.

They are resistant to colistin.

Note: as co-infection with other water-borne pathogens (Aeromonas and Shewanella spp) is common, ampicillin is not recommended empirically.