Pseudo-outbreak of Bacillus species: related to fibreoptic bronchoscopy.

In July and August 1980, Bacillus spp. were isolated with unusual frequency from bronchial washings obtained during bronchoscopy performed with fibreoptic equipment. Clinical disease in culture-positive patients was not apparent; but Bacillus spp. were recovered from one component of the bronchoscope, the automatic suction valve. It appeared that secretions became contaminated during passage through the valve en route to a collection device. After institution of controls directed primarily at proper storage and maintenance, the number of isolations of Bacillus spp. decreased significantly. Thus, investigation revealed a site for contamination not previously described and the results suggest that in future outbreaks, cultures of the component parts may permit localization of the site of contamination which may help focus control measures.