What features would help identify an organism as Burkholderia cepacia?

The identification of Burkholderia cepacia can indeed be supported by its ability to produce a red pigment and thrive at elevated temperatures, particularly at 42°C. The production of a red pigment is a biochemical characteristic that helps distinguish B. cepacia from other non-fermentative gram-negative bacteria, and its capability to grow at higher temperatures is indicative of its resilience and adaptability in various environments, including clinical settings.

In clinical microbiology, these traits are crucial for the accurate identification of B. cepacia, especially since it is often implicated in respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis patients and is known for its environmental presence. The combination of these particular features enhances the diagnostic process, aiding microbiologists in confirming the presence of this organism in patient samples. Understanding these characteristics is vital for proper diagnosis and treatment, given B. cepacia's resistance to many antibiotics and its association with biofilm formation, particularly in the lungs of compromised patients.