What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Elizabethkingia Anophelis Bacteremia

What is Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection? (Definition/Background Information)

• Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection is a condition caused by the bacterium, Elizabethkingia anophelis
• Signs and symptoms of the infection include fever, shortness of breath, chills, or cellulitis. The bacteria can also cause respiratory tract illness, septicemia (bloodstream infection), and meningitis
• Most affected people have other serious underlying health problems that may cause a weakened immune system
• The bacteria that is associated with this condition is usually carried by certain types of mosquitoes; however, the role of mosquitoes in spreading Elizabethkingia anophelis is unclear
• Treatment varies based on the strain of Elizabethkingia anopheles. While some strains are antibiotic-resistant, others may be susceptible to certain combinations of antibiotics

(Source: Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection; Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS), USA.)

Who gets Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection is a rare bacterial infection
• Both males and females may be affected
• Individuals with weak immune systems are more prone to getting infected by the causative bacterium
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection may include:

• An immature immune system such as in newborns
• A compromised immune system, such as those with HIV infection/AIDS, or on immunosuppressive drugs following a transplantation 
• Being in a hospital setting

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection? (Etiology)

• Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection is caused by the bacterium, Elizabethkingia anophelis
• Although certain types of mosquitoes carry the causative organism, the exact relationship between mosquitoes and transmission of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection is not clear

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection?

The signs and symptoms of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection may inlcude:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Cellulitis
• Infection of the respiratory tract 

(Source: Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection; Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS), USA.)

How is Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection Diagnosed?

Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests, including body fluids’ analysis
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection?

The complications of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection may include:

• Progressive spread of infection, causing septicemia (bloodstream infection) in individuals with weakened immune systems
• Infection of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), particularly in newborns

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection Treated?

The treatment for Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection may include antibiotics regimen, which may be through a single antibiotic or a combination of several antibiotics.

How can Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection be Prevented?

• Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection may be prevented through extreme caution (with respect to sanitization) while dealing with newborns or those with compromised immune systems
• Seeking medical attention at the onset of symptoms may help avoid life threatening complications
• Completing the recommended antibiotics course can help prevent the development of antibiotics-resistant strains of Elizabethkingia anophelis
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection

What is the Prognosis of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Elizabethkingia Anophelis Infection:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/