# Delftia spp as Opportunistic Pathogens: a narrative review

## TL;DR

This paper reviews Delftia species as opportunistic pathogens, highlighting their increasing clinical relevance and treatment considerations.

## Contribution

The study compiles 175 reported cases of Delftia infections, emphasizing D. acidovorans and treatment antibiotic efficacy.

## Key findings

- Delftia acidovorans accounts for 87.4% of reported Delftia infections.
- Ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, and imipenem are effective antibiotics for treating Delftia infections.
- Gentamicin should be avoided in treating these infections.

## Abstract

Non-fermenting Gram-negative bacteria pose a considerable challenge in medical settings and are increasingly implicated in infections in these settings. Many are opportunistic pathogens that primarily affect patients with other acute or chronic health conditions. Among them, Delftia species—particularly Delftia acidovorans - have traditionally been regarded as of limited clinical relevance. However, a comprehensive literature review has identified 175 reported cases of Delftia infections, with D. acidovorans accounting the majority cases (87.4 %). Bacteraemia was the most commonly associated condition, reported in 23 cases (13.1 %) with other infections such as pneumonia (9.8 %), sepsis (3.4 %) and peritonitis (2.9 %) also being prominent. The findings suggested that the antibiotics ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin and imipenem are usually effective in treating Delftia infections, but that gentamicin should be avoided. These findings suggest that while Delftia spp. may not be a widespread pathogen awareness and appropriate diagnostic recognition are required.