Pathogenicity of Species of the Achromobacter Genus in Patients From Reunion Island With Cystic Fibrosis

Frequency of pulmonary exacerbations according to the species of the Achromobacter genus colonising/infecting cystic fibrosis patients.

The pathogenicity of Achromobacter bacteria is not yet well established, but studies show a
 decline in respiratory function and an increase in mortality associated with chronic
 colonisation, making it possible to classify the Achromobacter genus as an emerging pathogen
 in cystic fibrosis. It is possible that certain species or clones are more virulent or
 resistant, requiring the adaptation of measures to prevent cross-transmission in the centres
 concerned.
 
 However, until now, the identification of Achromobacter species has involved the use of
 molecular biology techniques that are not routinely applicable in diagnostic laboratories,
 limiting studies and the collection of epidemiological data. Recently, a database using
 MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry has been built for rapid and accurate species identification.
 
 In view of the local epidemiology and the current lack of data, it would be necessary and
 interesting to use this tool to study a cohort of cystic fibrosis patients in Réunion island
 (North and South sites) to see whether one species has a greater clinical impact than another
 (pathogenicity), and/or is more responsible for chronic colonisation.