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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2019; 40(06): 727-736
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1698464
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Microbiology of Cystic Fibrosis Airway Disease

Ana C. Blanchard
1   Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
,
Valerie J. Waters
1   Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
30 December 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Although survival of individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) has been continuously improving for the past 40 years, respiratory failure secondary to recurrent pulmonary infections remains the leading cause of mortality in this patient population. Certain pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and species of the Burkholderia cepacia complex continue to be associated with poorer clinical outcomes including accelerated lung function decline and increased mortality. In addition, other organisms such as anaerobes, viruses, and fungi are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to disease progression. Culture-independent molecular methods are also being used for diagnostic purposes and to examine the interaction of microorganisms in the CF airway. Given the importance of CF airway infections, ongoing initiatives to promote understanding of the epidemiology, clinical course, and treatment options for these infections are needed.

Keywords

cystic fibrosis - microbiology - bacteria - fungi - viruses - microbiome