Mucoid Pseudomonas in cystic fibrosis.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a frequent and virulent pulmonary pathogen in patients with cystic fibrosis. If colonization is not prevented, P aeruginosa becomes permanently established and nearly always mutates into a mucoid strain. The alginate-containing matrix of the mucoid strain is thought to allow the formation of protected microcolonies and provide increased resistance to opsonization, phagocytosis, and destruction by antibiotics. As a result, conversion to the mucoid phenotype is associated with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality. In the microbiology laboratory, mucoid P aeruginosa has a distinct Gram stain and culture appearance that can expedite its identification and facilitate appropriate patient management. Important aspects of the mucoid phenotype are reviewed.
Pritt
Bobbi
B
Clinical Microbiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
O'Brien
Linda
L
Winn
Washington
W
D000464:Alginates; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000382:microbiology*; D020723:Glucuronic Acid / Q000096:biosynthesis; D006603:Hexuronic Acids; D006801:Humans; D011550:Pseudomonas aeruginosa / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000378:metabolism
D000464:Alginates; D006603:Hexuronic Acids; D020723:Glucuronic Acid