Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen that has become a global concern due to its multidrug resistance and ability to cause severe nosocomial infections, including pneumonia, bacteremia, endocarditis, and meningitis. It is particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals, ICU patients, and those on high-dose antibiotic therapy. The bacterium is commonly found in the airways of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, where it can lead to chronic lung infections and significantly reduce lung function. S. maltophilia is known for its ability to form biofilms, which contribute to its persistence and resistance to antibiotics. It also exhibits a high level of antibiotic resistance, including resistance to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, β-lactams, and other antibiotics. This resistance is often due to the presence of efflux pumps and antibiotic-modifying enzymes. Additionally, S. maltophilia can grow in the presence of various heavy metals, further complicating treatment. The bacterium produces a variety of virulence factors, including lytic enzymes, secretion systems, and diffusible signaling factors (DSF), which contribute to its pathogenicity. DSF plays a key role in biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance. S. maltophilia also possesses pili and flagella that aid in attachment to host cells and surfaces. The bacterium's ability to form biofilms and its resistance to antibiotics make it a challenging pathogen to treat. Understanding its virulence mechanisms and resistance strategies is crucial for developing effective treatments and preventing its spread.Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen that has become a global concern due to its multidrug resistance and ability to cause severe nosocomial infections, including pneumonia, bacteremia, endocarditis, and meningitis. It is particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals, ICU patients, and those on high-dose antibiotic therapy. The bacterium is commonly found in the airways of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, where it can lead to chronic lung infections and significantly reduce lung function. S. maltophilia is known for its ability to form biofilms, which contribute to its persistence and resistance to antibiotics. It also exhibits a high level of antibiotic resistance, including resistance to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, β-lactams, and other antibiotics. This resistance is often due to the presence of efflux pumps and antibiotic-modifying enzymes. Additionally, S. maltophilia can grow in the presence of various heavy metals, further complicating treatment. The bacterium produces a variety of virulence factors, including lytic enzymes, secretion systems, and diffusible signaling factors (DSF), which contribute to its pathogenicity. DSF plays a key role in biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance. S. maltophilia also possesses pili and flagella that aid in attachment to host cells and surfaces. The bacterium's ability to form biofilms and its resistance to antibiotics make it a challenging pathogen to treat. Understanding its virulence mechanisms and resistance strategies is crucial for developing effective treatments and preventing its spread.