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The hidden villain
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major cause of bacterial lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). It can impair lung function and cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and changes in the amount of mucus.
Quick takeaways
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa can hide in the lungs
- Progression of Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be a problem
- Feeling better does not mean it’s gone
Found in the lungs of nearly half of all people with CF, Pseudomonas aeruginosa can live deep in the lungs, which is why a negative culture doesn’t always mean you are infection-free. Pseudomonas aeruginosa could still be hiding.
“I've had Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections before. Does it ever go away?”
The problem with Pseudomonas aeruginosa progression
Pseudomonas aeruginosa can progress over time. When it progresses, it becomes chronic. That means the infection does not always go away, and symptoms may linger and possibly get worse.
Pseudo-what?!
Hear: Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(soo-daMOE-nus A-ridge-a-NO-sa)
Untreated, it can progress to become a different strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, called mucoid, that can:
- Be harder to treat and get rid of
- Impair lung structure and function
Over time, Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause permanent lung damage such as scar tissue and cysts in the lungs.
Are you keeping up
with your cultures?
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) guidelines recommend 4 respiratory cultures annually.
You can feel better and still be infected
Just because you’re feeling better on your other CF treatments doesn’t mean you’re not infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The only way to know for sure is to keep up with your quarterly cultures. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor and care team.
