A central venous catheter contaminated by Pseudomonas fluorescens could infect a patient's bloodstream for over a year after contamination. Researchers collected data from a recent outbreak of P. fluorescens bacteremia, caused by a tainted heparin flush. Between December 2004 and April 2006, P. fluorescens bacteremia was identified in 64 patients across four states. Manufacturers recalled the contaminated syringes in January 2005. In most cases, a diagnosis was made well after the patient's last potential exposure, between 84 and 421 days. After catheter removal, examination revealed biofilms in the catheter lumens. Analysts believe the original contaminated flush wasn't sufficient to cause infection, but the bacteria survived and multiplied in the biofilms, and were flushed out into the bloodstream by later treatments. Healthcare providers are encouraged to keep a close watch on catheters for potential infection and to remove contaminated catheters immediately.

Source