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Microbiologic and therapeutic aspects of Staphylococcus aureus in cystic fibrosis patients
A Bauernfeind1, G Hörl, B Przyklenk
1Max von Pettenkofer-Institut, Munich, FRG.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequent (28.8%) gram-positive organism in 149 cystic fibrosis patients. Next to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, S. aureus was the most persistent bacterial pathogen as well. Persistence was not correlated to the age or sex of our patients. Colonization by S. aureus was not prevented completely by oral antibiotics like cotrimoxazole or oral cephalosporins. Persisting staphylococci were less susceptible to the antibiotic substances used than strains detectable only sporadically. Increase of sputum concentrations of P. aeruginosa was observed in episodes of treatment with purely antistaphylococcal compounds. Improvement of effectiveness of antibacterial therapy may be achievable by antibiotics more active against staphylococci, active both against staphylococci and P. aeruginosa, or adequate drug combinations.
Insights
Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent and persistent bacterial pathogen in cystic fibrosis patients. Effective treatment requires antibiotics targeting S. aureus, potentially in combination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa therapies.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a common gram-positive organism in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.
- It is the second most persistent bacterial pathogen after Pseudomonas aeruginosa in CF.
- S. aureus persistence is not linked to patient age or sex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and persistence of Staphylococcus aureus in cystic fibrosis patients.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of current antibiotic treatments against S. aureus in CF.
- To identify strategies for improving antibacterial therapy for CF patients with S. aureus.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of bacterial pathogens in 149 cystic fibrosis patients.
- Assessment of S. aureus prevalence and persistence.
- Evaluation of antibiotic susceptibility and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 28.8% of CF patients.
- Persistent S. aureus strains showed reduced susceptibility to antibiotics compared to sporadic strains.
- Treatment with antistaphylococcal agents sometimes led to increased Pseudomonas aeruginosa levels.
Conclusions:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a significant and persistent pathogen in cystic fibrosis.
- Current oral antibiotic regimens are not fully effective in eradicating S. aureus.
- Improved therapeutic strategies, including combination therapies or agents targeting both S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, are needed.