Introduction: The importance of researching Elizabethkingis anophelis is exceptionally high due to several reasons that relate to public health, infectious disease control, and advances in microbiology. Below are the key reasons for the significance of investigating this bacterium:
Methods: This study is a narrative review aimed at
summarizing the current understanding of
Elizabethkingia anophelis in terms of its
microbiological characteristics, epidemiology,
clinical manifestations, antimicrobial resistance,
and therapeutic challenges. To collect relevant
data, a comprehensive literature search was
conducted using scientific databases such as
PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar
Keywords used included: "Elizabethkingia
anophelis," "nosocomial infections," "antibiotic
".resistance,"" "sepsis," and emerging pathogens
Studies published between 2010 and 2025 were
prioritized, including clinical reports, outbreak
investigations, molecular studies, and reviews.
Results: Outbreaks in countries such as the United States, Singapore, South Korea, and China confirm its
Global spread. Clinically, it causes a variety of Serious infections including sepsis, pneumonia,
Neonatal meningitis, and urinary tract infections, With reported mortality rates of 30-60%,
Especially among ICU patients The bacterium exhibits high levels of intrinsic antibiotic resistance, notably against Cephalosporins, carbapenems, and Aminoglycosides. However, susceptibility has been observed in some strains to minocycline, Fluoroquinolones, and trimethoprim- Sulfamethoxazole. Additionally, its ability to form Biofilms and produce beta-lactamases Contributes to its persistence and resistance in Hospital environments. Accurate identification Requires advanced molecular techniques such as MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA sequencing due to Frequent misidentifcation with other Flavobacteriaceae.
Conclusion: Elizabethkingia anophelis represents a significant
and underrecognized threat in modern
healthcare, particularly in intensive care and
neonatal units. lts ability to resist multiple
antibiotics, cause severe infections, and evade
standard detection methods demands urgent
attention. There is a critical need for enhanced
diagnostic capabilities, increased surveillance,
and localized research--especially in regions like
Iran where data remains scarce. Further studies
on its resistance mechanisms, epidemiology, and
effective treatment protocols are essential for
managing this emerging pathogen
Keywords: Elizabethkingia anophelis;
Nosocomial infection;
Antibiotic resistance;
Sepsis;
Emerging Pat