CHAPTER 26: Environmental pathogens: Pseudomonas, Burkholderia and Legionella

Question 1

Isolates of these organisms from patients with cystic fibrosis produce a polysaccharide alginate that protects from opsonization, phagocytosis and antibiotics in microcolonies.

Answer 1

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Question 2

__________ of P. aeruginosa is associated with hypersusceptibility to antibiotics, lipopolysaccharide deficiency, non-motility and reduced exotoxin production

Answer 2

Alginate production

Question 3

This organism can cause chronic pulmonary infection among patients with cystic fibrosis.

Answer 3

Burkholderia cepacia

Question 4

It causes melioidosis that may present as a tuberculosis-like disease, as acute septicaemia or as multiple abscesses.

Answer 4

Burkholderia pseudomallei

Question 5

Burkholderia pseudomallei is treated with ______________

Answer 5

Ceftazidime or Imipenem.

Question 6

They are found in rivers, lakes, warm springs, domestic watersupplies, fountains, air-conditioning systems, swimming pools and jacuzzis.

Answer 6

Legionella

Question 7

A mild, influenza-like illness caused by Legionella

Answer 7

Pontiac fever

Question 8

Severe pneumonia caused by Legionella, which can lead to respiratory failure and high mortality.

Answer 8

Legionnaires’ disease

Question 9

Inappropriate _________ hormone production may be associated with low serum sodium in Legionella

Answer 9

Naturetic

Question 10

Effective regimen for Legionella treatment

Answer 10

Macrolide antibiotic with rifampicin

Question 11

Legionellosis is prevented by adequate maintenance of air-conditioning systems and by ensuring that hot-water supplies are __________ to prevent multiplication.

Answer 11

above 45 °C