What type of infections does Acinetobacter primarily cause?

Acinetobacter primarily causes nosocomial infections, which are infections acquired in healthcare settings such as hospitals. This genus of bacteria is particularly known for its ability to survive on surfaces and within the human body, making it a significant pathogen in environments with high patient turnover and invasive procedures.

Nosocomial infections can range from bloodstream infections to pneumonia, particularly in patients with compromised immune systems or those using ventilators. Acinetobacter species are often resistant to multiple antibiotics, which complicates treatment and further emphasizes their association with hospital settings where antibiotic use is prevalent and can lead to the selection of resistant strains.

While Acinetobacter can be involved in skin and soft tissue infections and respiratory infections, these typically occur in the context of an underlying health issue or invasive procedures, rather than being primary infectious agents outside of the healthcare environment. Gastrointestinal infections caused by Acinetobacter are rare compared to the more common nosocomial infections it causes, which is why the focus on these specific types of infections is critical in understanding their impact on patient care and hospital hygiene practices.