Drugs
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Review
The treatment of respiratory pseudomonas infection in cystic fibrosis: what drug and which way?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a non-capsulate and non-sporing gram-negative bacillus that most commonly affects the lower respiratory system in humans. Burkholderia (previously Pseudomonas) cepacia has emerged as an important respiratory pathogen in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The ability of P. aeruginosa to persist and multiply in moist environments and equipment, such as humidifiers in hospital wards, bathrooms, sinks and kitchens, maybe of importance in cross-infection. ⋯ Colistin, tobramycin and gentamicin are currently the most commonly prescribed nebulised antibiotics. Much effort is directed at treating chronic P. aeruginosa infection but as chronic infection is seldom if ever eradicated when first established, prevention is preferable. Early intensive treatment for P. aeruginosa infection is advocated in order to maintain pulmonary function and postpone the onset of chronic P. aeruginosa infection.