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Dynamic colonisation by different Pneumocystis jirovecii genotypes in cystic fibrosis patients

M A Montes-Cano1, C de la Horra, F J Dapena

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Virgen Del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain. marcoa.montes.exts@juntadeandalucia.es

Clinical Microbiology and Infection : the Official Publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
|August 23, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Pneumocystis jirovecii (PJP) colonization in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients shows dynamic evolution. Genotype 3 (85T/248C) becomes more prevalent over time in CF patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Pulmonology
  • Molecular Epidemiology

Background:

  • Asymptomatic Pneumocystis jirovecii (PJP) carriage in cystic fibrosis (CF) is known.
  • The molecular epidemiology of PJP in CF patients remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution and evolution of PJP genotypes in CF patients.
  • To clarify the molecular epidemiology of PJP in CF.

Main Methods:

  • Respiratory samples from 33 CF patients were analyzed.
  • Nested PCR and direct sequencing of the mitochondrial large-subunit (mt LSU) rRNA gene were used.
  • Genotyping of PJP isolates was performed.

Main Results:

  • Three distinct PJP genotypes were identified: Genotype 1 (85C/248C) at 36.3%, Genotype 2 (85A/248C) at 15.1%, and Genotype 3 (85T/248C) at 42.4%.
  • Mixed genotypes were found in 6% of samples.
  • A 1-year follow-up revealed continuous colonization/clearance cycles.
  • A trend towards increased colonization with Genotype 3 was observed.

Conclusions:

  • PJP colonization in CF patients is dynamic, involving cycles of clearance and re-colonization.
  • Genotype 3 (85T/248C) shows an accumulating prevalence in CF patients over time.
  • Understanding PJP genotypes in CF is crucial for managing respiratory infections.

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