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Respiratory bacterial infections in cystic fibrosis

Oana Ciofu1, Christine R Hansen, Niels Høiby

  • 1Institute of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, Unit of Bacteriology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. ociofu@sund.ku.dk

Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
|March 2, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients face significant risks from bacterial respiratory infections. This review covers the disease and treatment of CF-related pathogens, emphasizing upper and lower respiratory tract surveillance and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Bacterial respiratory infections are a primary cause of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a key pathogen in adults, but other bacteria like Achromobacter xylosoxidans, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and nontuberculous mycobacteria also contribute to lung disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on the disease and treatment of infections caused by CF-related pathogens.
  • To discuss bacterial adaptation in the paranasal sinuses and lungs and treatment principles for these sites.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review summarizing existing research on CF-related respiratory infections.
  • Focus on the role of paranasal sinuses as a reservoir for bacterial adaptation and infection.
  • Analysis of treatment principles for infections in both upper (sinuses) and lower (lungs) respiratory tracts.

Main Results:

  • Chronic pulmonary infections remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in CF.
  • Emerging pathogens beyond P. aeruginosa have been identified, each with unique clinical characteristics.
  • The paranasal sinuses are recognized as a significant source of infection and bacterial adaptation in CF patients.

Conclusions:

  • Effective microbiological surveillance, including nasal sampling, is crucial for patient stability.
  • Comprehensive treatment should address infections in both the lower and upper respiratory tracts.
  • Understanding and treating diverse CF-related pathogens is essential for improving patient outcomes.

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