Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A Stealthy Pathogen
Description
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacterium that is commonly found in soil, water, and air. It is an opportunistic pathogen, meaning it takes advantage of compromised immune systems to cause infections. Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause a wide range of infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, blood infections, and skin and soft tissue infections.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a tough and adaptable bacterium that is resistant to many antibiotics. It can also form biofilms, which are communities of bacteria that are embedded in a protective matrix. Biofilms make it difficult for antibiotics to penetrate and kill the bacteria.
Associated Diseases
Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause a variety of infections, including:
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections
- Blood infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Endocarditis (infection of the heart valves)
- Meningitis (infection of the meninges)
- Osteomyelitis (infection of the bone)
- Sepsis (a life-threatening infection of the bloodstream)
Did you Know ?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the leading causes of hospital-acquired infections. It is estimated that Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes over 10,000 infections in U.S. hospitals each year.
Latest Research
Researchers are working to develop new ways to prevent and treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. One promising area of research is the development of new antibiotics that are effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Another area of research is the development of new ways to break down biofilms.
