The Genus Ochrobactrum as Major Opportunistic Pathogens

<i>Ochrobactrum</i> species are non-enteric, Gram-negative organisms that are closely related to the genus <i>Brucella</i>. Since the designation of the genus in 1988, several distinct species have now been characterised and implicated as opportunistic pathogens in multiple outbreaks. Here, we examine the genus, its members, diagnostic tools used for identification, data from recent <i>Ochrobactrum</i> whole genome sequencing and the pathogenicity associated with reported <i>Ochrobactrum</i> infections. This review identified 128 instances of <i>Ochrobactrum</i> spp. infections that have been discussed in the literature. These findings indicate that infection review programs should consider investigation of possible <i>Ochrobactrum</i> spp. outbreaks if these bacteria are clinically isolated in more than one patient and that <i>Ochrobactrum</i> spp. are more important pathogens than previously thought.