What pathogenic bacteria are commonly found in the lungs of older children and adults with cystic fibrosis?

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Multiple Choice

What pathogenic bacteria are commonly found in the lungs of older children and adults with cystic fibrosis?

Explanation:
In cystic fibrosis, the lung environment changes with age, and the pathogens present shift accordingly. Early in life, Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae are commonly detected. As children become older, Pseudomonas aeruginosa becomes the dominant and most persistent pathogen, frequently establishing chronic infection. Its ability to form alginate-producing biofilms helps it resist antibiotics and persist in the thick, thickened CF mucus, driving ongoing lung damage. While Klebsiella pneumoniae can be seen, it is not as characteristic of CF lung infections as Pseudomonas.

In cystic fibrosis, the lung environment changes with age, and the pathogens present shift accordingly. Early in life, Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae are commonly detected. As children become older, Pseudomonas aeruginosa becomes the dominant and most persistent pathogen, frequently establishing chronic infection. Its ability to form alginate-producing biofilms helps it resist antibiotics and persist in the thick, thickened CF mucus, driving ongoing lung damage. While Klebsiella pneumoniae can be seen, it is not as characteristic of CF lung infections as Pseudomonas.

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