Whirlpool-associated Pseudomonas aeruginosa urinary tract infections

P. Salmen, D. M. Dwyer, H. Vorse and W. Kruse

Three previously healthy outpatients had urinary tract infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Investigation disclosed that all three patients had been exposed to whirlpool baths within 48 hours before the onset of symptoms. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from the whirlpool bath associated with each case. Whirlpool baths and spas are commonly contaminated with Pseudomonas and have in the past been associated with rash illness and folliculitis. In addition to these skin infections, our results indicate that whirlpool bath or spa exposure may be an emerging risk factor associated with Pseudomonas urinary tract infections among outpatients.