Related Experiment Videos
Unexpected isolation of Bordetella pertussis from patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco.
Abstract:
We isolated Bordetella pertussis from three patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome who underwent diagnostic bronchoscopy for evaluation of respiratory symptoms. The B. pertussis isolates were recovered from medium (charcoal-yeast extract agar) formulated to enhance recovery of Legionella spp., and one of the isolates stained positively with antisera directed against Legionella spp.
Insights
Bordetella pertussis was identified in three patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome during respiratory symptom evaluation. Unexpectedly, the bacteria were cultured using a medium designed for Legionella, highlighting potential diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) increases susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
- Respiratory symptoms are common in individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS.
- Accurate identification of respiratory pathogens is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the isolation of Bordetella pertussis in patients with AIDS.
- To investigate the recovery of B. pertussis using a specialized culture medium.
- To highlight potential diagnostic misinterpretations.
Main Methods:
- Diagnostic bronchoscopy was performed on three patients with AIDS presenting with respiratory symptoms.
- Samples were cultured on charcoal-yeast extract agar, a medium optimized for Legionella spp. recovery.
- Bordetella pertussis isolates were identified using standard microbiological techniques.
Main Results:
- Bordetella pertussis was successfully isolated from three AIDS patients.
- The B. pertussis isolates were recovered from a medium intended for Legionella.
- One isolate showed cross-reactivity in an antiserum test for Legionella.
Conclusions:
- Bordetella pertussis can be isolated from patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
- Standard culture media may not always be optimal for identifying all respiratory pathogens in immunocompromised individuals.
- Careful interpretation of laboratory results is necessary, especially when using non-standard media or encountering unexpected findings.