The effect of exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of hypochlorite and quaternary ammonium compounds on antimicrobial susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Background: Pseudomonas is a group of medically important species that inhabit a wide range of niches, including hospital environments. Controversies have emerged about the possible link between improper use of disinfectants and the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of exposure of antibiotic-susceptible Pseudomonas isolates to sub-inhibitory concentrations of 2 disinfectants-didecyldimonium chloride and sodium hypochlorite-on their antibiotic susceptibility patterns.