Emergence of Streptococcus agalactiae in Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Eickel Vera, Kahl Barbara, Reinisch Beatrice, Dübbers Angelika, Küster Peter, Brandt Claudia, Spellerberg Barbara
Primary Institution: University of Ulm
Hypothesis
Is the emergence of S. agalactiae in the respiratory tract of cystic fibrosis patients due to adaptation to a novel host environment?
Conclusion
S. agalactiae was found in 16% of cystic fibrosis patients, suggesting it may be adapting to the respiratory tract environment.
Supporting Evidence
- S. agalactiae was detected in respiratory secretions of 30 out of 185 cystic fibrosis patients.
- The median age of patients with S. agalactiae was older than those without.
- Different sequence types of S. agalactiae were found, indicating no local outbreak.
- Serotype III was rare among CF patients compared to other populations.
Takeaway
Doctors found a type of bacteria called S. agalactiae in the lungs of some kids with cystic fibrosis, which is unusual because it usually doesn't live there.
Methodology
Respiratory specimens from cystic fibrosis patients were collected and analyzed for the presence of S. agalactiae using molecular typing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Limitations
The study did not investigate the surfactant protein levels in patients harboring S. agalactiae.
Participant Demographics
The median age of S. agalactiae positive CF patients was 16.5 years, with a 50% female to male ratio.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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