An aerobiological model of aerosol survival of different strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from people with cystic fibrosis

J Cyst Fibros. 2010 Jan;9(1):64-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jcf.2009.11.004. Epub 2009 Nov 27.

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common and important pathogen in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Recently epidemic strains of P. aeruginosa associated with increased morbidity, have been identified. The method of transmission is not clear, but there is evidence of a potential airborne route. The aim of this study was to determine whether different strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from people with CF were able to survive within artificially generated aerosols in an aerobiological chamber. Viable P. aeruginosa could still be detected up to 45min after halting generation of the aerosols. All of the strains of P. aeruginosa expressing a non-mucoid phenotype isolated from people with CF had a reduced ability to survive within aerosols compared to an environmental strain. Expression of a mucoid phenotype by the strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from people with CF promoted survival in the aerosol model compared to strains expressing a non-mucoid phenotype.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aerosols*
  • Cystic Fibrosis / microbiology*
  • Humans
  • Microbial Viability
  • Microbiological Techniques
  • Models, Biological*
  • Nebulizers and Vaporizers
  • Pseudomonas Infections / microbiology*
  • Pseudomonas Infections / transmission*
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa / classification
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa / growth & development*
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa / isolation & purification

Substances

  • Aerosols