Possible contamination of organ preservation fluid with Bacillus cereus: the United Kingdom response

Euro Surveill. 2012 May 3;17(18):20165. doi: 10.2807/ese.17.18.20165-en.

Abstract

We describe here the United Kingdom (UK) response following the recent international recall of an organ preservation fluid owing to potential Bacillus cereus contamination. This fluid is used for the transport of solid organs and pancreatic islet cells for transplant. We detail the response mechanisms, including the initial risk stratification, investigatory approaches, isolate analysis and communications to professional bodies. This report further lays out the potential need for enhanced surveillance in UK transplant patients.

MeSH terms

  • Bacillaceae Infections / epidemiology
  • Bacillaceae Infections / microbiology
  • Bacillus cereus* / isolation & purification
  • Consumer Product Safety
  • Drug Contamination*
  • Electrophoresis, Gel, Pulsed-Field
  • Humans
  • Organ Preservation Solutions*
  • United Kingdom

Substances

  • Organ Preservation Solutions