pseudomonas

general information about Pseudomonas

gram-

obligate aerobic rods

what does an opportunistic pathogen mean?

does not cause disease in a healthy person, but becomes pathogenic when the immune system is weakened

what makes them poor pathogens in most cases?

readily killed by a healthy immune system

some mild infections in healthy people:

• swimmer’s ear, hot-tub folliculitis

why are they particularly difficult opportunistic pathogens?

grows on a lot of different food sources (soap, diesel fuel, glue)

resistant to many types of antibiotics/disinfectants

produces exotoxins of the same type as diphtheria toxin (not as strong)

in all cases, what does Pseudomonas aeruginosa do once inside the body?

bacteria gain entry to blood → causes sepsis and shock due to endotoxins

what are the most common types of patients affected by Pseudomonas infections?

burn victims

immune compromised

• AIDS patients, cancer patients

cystic fibrosis

• leading cause of pneumonia in CF patients

why are burn victims particularly affected by Pseudomonas infections?

large areas of damaged tissue

damage prevents immune system access

highly available space for oxygen

what is the treatment?

antibiotics

helpful to know that it is Pseudomonas since it has a different sensitivity profile