Identification and management of unusual pathogens in cystic fibrosis

摘要

The role of infecting organisms in the pathogenesis of lung disease is well established. Organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, non-capsulate Haemophilus influenzae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) and respiratory viruses are well recognized as important pathogens which drive inflammatory responses and lung injury in cystic fibrosis (CF).1 nnAggressive treatment of airway infection in CF has been one of the key factors in improving long-term survival, and many patients with CF are treated very aggressively with antibiotics to maintain airway sterility.2,3 In the last 10–15 years a number of organisms have been identified that are likely to play a role in airways infection in CF. An increasing number of species have been identified as dominant pathogens in the airway and in addition a wide range of co-infecting organisms have also now been identified.