An exploratory study of microbial diversity in sinus infections of cystic fibrosis patients by molecular methods

Vibeke Børsholt Rudkjøbing, Kasper Aanaes, Tine Yding Wolff, Christian von Buchwald, Helle Krogh Johansen, Trine Rolighed Thomsen

13 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: For the first time microorganisms in CF sinuses are investigated by molecular methods in response to an absence of anaerobes in CF sinus samples during a two-year period at the Copenhagen CF center.

METHODS: Endoscopic sinus surgery was performed in 19 CF patients. DNA from intact bacterial cells was investigated by 16S rRNA gene analysis and quantitative PCR. Results were compared to culture-dependent routine diagnosis.

RESULTS: Molecular methods showed a large microbial diversity, which included undetected anaerobes that may play a pathogenic role. Importantly, the culture methods did not always detect known CF pathogens. Quantitative PCR showed generally a higher abundance of classic CF pathogens e.g. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus compared with the anaerobe Propionibacterium acnes.

CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that the culture methods in some cases may not be suitable as stand-alone method for this patient group, as diversity may be underestimated and important species undetected.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of cystic fibrosis : official journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society
Volume13
Issue number6
Pages (from-to)645-52
Number of pages8
ISSN1569-1993
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2014

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