Pseudomonas aeruginosa Quiz

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

• A common pathogen in humans, particularly in hospital settings.
• Found in moist areas like sinks, drains, and respiratory equipment.
• Requires oxygen to survive (obligate aerobe).
• Produces a distinctive sweet grape-like odor.
• An oxidase-positive bacterium, meaning it can utilize oxygen in a specific way.
• Unable to ferment glucose or lactose.
• Grows at 42 degrees Celsius, a relatively high temperature for bacteria.

Gram-Negative Characteristics

• Belongs to the gram-negative bacteria category.
• Has a flagellum that allows it to move (motile).
• Prefers oxygen for growth (aerobic).
• Widely present in environments like water, plants, and animals.

Infections

• Can cause infections of the skin, eyes, and ears.

Serious Infections

• Can lead to severe and dangerous illnesses such as:
  • Ventilated-associated pneumonia (VAP), a lung infection in people on ventilators.
  • Nosocomial pneumonia, pneumonia acquired in a hospital setting.
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs).

At Risk Populations

• Certain individuals are more susceptible to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections:
  • People with low white blood cell counts (neutropenic patients).
  • Burn patients.
  • Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.
  • Patients on mechanical ventilators.

Virulent Factors

• Possesses factors that contribute to its virulence:
  • Exotoxin A: A toxin that damages cells.
  • Pili: Hair-like structures that help it attach to surfaces.
  • Lipopolysaccharide: A component of its outer membrane that triggers inflammation.
  • Ability to colonize and persist in the body for long periods.

Mechanism of Resistance

• It can resist antibiotics through various mechanisms:
  • Beta-lactamase: An enzyme that breaks down certain antibiotics.
  • Biofilm formation: A protective layer that shields it from antibiotics.
  • Multi-drug efflux pumps: Systems that pump out antibiotics from its cells.

Test your knowledge on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common gram-negative bacterium found in healthcare settings. This quiz covers its characteristics, infections it can cause, and its survival in various environments. See how much you really know about this important pathogen!