Microbe snapshots: Burkholderia pseudomallei

Abstract

Burkholderia pseudomallei , the “great mimicker” and etiologic agent of melioidosis, is an environmental Gram-negative bacillus highly endemic to Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Clinical manifestations range from localized skin abscess to severe pneumonia and sepsis. While considered rare, the bacterium can remain latent for decades, making melioidosis a critical differential diagnosis for those with exposure risk, both recent and remote. Laboratory identification requires culture under BSL-3 precautions, and treatment mandates a prolonged, biphasic approach to prevent relapse.