Which Pseudomonas species is usually associated with lung infections related to cystic fibrosis?

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the species most commonly associated with lung infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. This bacterium is known for its ability to establish chronic infections in the lungs of patients with this genetic disorder. Due to the thick mucus produced in the lungs of those with cystic fibrosis, P. aeruginosa can thrive and form biofilms, which are clusters of bacteria that adhere to surfaces and are protected from the immune system and antibiotic treatment.

The characteristics of P. aeruginosa, such as its metabolic versatility, resistance to many antibiotics, and the ability to produce a variety of virulence factors, make it particularly well-suited to infecting the compromised lung environment found in cystic fibrosis patients. This chronic infection often leads to lung damage, respiratory failure, and significantly impacts the quality of life for these individuals.

In contrast, other species like P. fluorescens and P. putida are generally less pathogenic and are not commonly linked to lung infections in cystic fibrosis. Burkholderia pseudomallei, while it can cause serious infections, is primarily associated with melioidosis and is not specifically tied to cystic fibrosis-related lung infections.