Pantoea Infections in Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Chart Review and Review of Literature

Pantoea agglomerans (formerly Enterobacter agglomerans) is a ubiquitous Gram-negative rod found in the soil. Historically, it was considered a contaminant in intravenous fluids, Propofol, and total parenteral nutrition. Recently, it has been described as a cause of suppurative arthritis after penetrating injuries with thorns. We describe a unique series of Pantoae spp infections occurring in cancer patients at an academic cancer hospital. We conducted a retrospective review of all cases of Pantoea species infection at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute. Ten patients with positive culture of P. agglomerans were identified from blood, sputum, and wound culture specimens. Our case series indicates that infections due to P. agglomerans are rare but notable in patients with both hematologic and solid-tumor malignancies. Generally, the clinical course of Pantoea infection is mild and proper antibiotic treatment leads to full recovery.