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Molecular epidemiology of Burkholderia species

Tom Coenye1, John J LiPuma

  • 1Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.

Frontiers in Bioscience : a Journal and Virtual Library
|November 29, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Burkholderia cepacia complex bacteria pose significant risks to individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic granulomatous disease. Understanding the distinct species within this complex is crucial for effective infection control and patient management.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Most Burkholderia species are non-pathogenic, but some, like B. mallei and B. pseudomallei, cause severe diseases (glanders, melioidosis) and are bioterrorism concerns.
  • Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) is an opportunistic pathogen, particularly dangerous for individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD).
  • In CF patients, BCC infections can lead to chronic respiratory issues or rapid decline in lung function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the emergence and impact of Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) as an opportunistic pathogen.
  • To highlight the risks BCC poses to individuals with specific underlying conditions, notably cystic fibrosis (CF).
  • To underscore the importance of differentiating species within the BCC for understanding their distinct epidemiological and pathological roles in CF.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent scientific literature on Burkholderia species.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data concerning BCC infections in vulnerable populations.
  • Discussion of genotyping techniques used to identify and differentiate BCC species.

Main Results:

  • Early studies in the 1990s used genotyping to confirm person-to-person transmission of B. cepacia among CF patients, leading to strict infection control measures.
  • Recent research has revealed that the "B. cepacia" group comprises multiple distinct species, now collectively termed the B. cepacia complex (BCC).
  • The specific roles and characteristics of individual BCC species in CF patients are still under active investigation.

Conclusions:

  • The Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) presents a significant health threat, especially to individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF).
  • The recognition of distinct species within the BCC necessitates ongoing research to understand their unique epidemiological and clinical impacts.
  • Effective infection control and tailored patient management strategies are critical for addressing BCC infections in at-risk populations.

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