Lung abscess due to Pseudomonas cepacia.

A diabetic patient with pneumonia of unspecified origin developed a lung abscess after therapy with ultrasonic nebulization. The etiologic organism was identified as Pseudomonas cepacia. Investigation determined the source of the organism to be the reservoir of the ultrasonic nebulizer, to which the patient was directly exposed through removal of the bottom of the disposable medication cup. When this organism is isolated a nosocomial source of infection should be suspected.