Panton-Valentine Leukocidin-positive Staphylococcus aureus: a potentially significant pathogen in cystic fibrosis.
Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen within the context of cystic fibrosis lung disease. Case reports have identified a strong association between the toxin Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL) and lethal necrotizing pneumonia in healthy immunocompetent patients. PVL+ strains of Staphylococcus aureus have also been identified in patients with cystic fibrosis. We describe a further case of pneumonia in a patient with cystic fibrosis, and outline potential transmission of the organism from healthy family members to this patient. We review the evidence regarding the pathogenicity of PVL toxin with a special reference to patients with cystic fibrosis. We outline current concerns regarding the potential transmission of the organism and possible treatment strategies.
Manchester Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre, University Hospital of South Manchester, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK. Electronic address: Peter.Barry@UHSM.NHS.UK.
Peter J
PJ
Barry
Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of South Manchester, Wythenshawe, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK.
Barbara J
BJ
Isalska
Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester.
Andrew M
AM
Jones
D001427:Bacterial Toxins / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000382:microbiology*; D005098:Exotoxins / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D006801:Humans; D007956:Leukocidins / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D008297:Male; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000150:complications*; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus / Q000378:metabolism*; D055815:Young Adult
D001427:Bacterial Toxins; D005098:Exotoxins; D007956:Leukocidins; C078284:Panton-Valentine leukocidin
Cystic fibrosis; Infection control; PVL; Pneumonia; Staphylococcus aureus