The perils of medical tourism: NDM-1-positive Escherichia coli causing febrile neutropenia in a medical tourist

Chan HLE, Poon LM, Chan SG, Teo JWP
Correspondence: Dr Esther HL Chan, esther.hl.chan@gmail.com

ABSTRACT
NDM-1 is a new metallo-beta-lactamase that readily hydrolyses carbapenems, penicillins and cephalosporins. Its rising incidence has been reported in many countries around the world, with many cases linked to a possible origin from the Indian subcontinent. Due to the lack of effective antibiotic regimes to treat these infections, the increased prevalence of NDM-1 is alarming. We describe a case of NDM-1 infection in an immunocompromised foreign patient, and discuss its implications.

Keywords: medical tourism, NDM-1
Singapore Med J 2011; 52(4): 299-302