Molecular Typing of Australian Scedosporium Isolates
Author Information
Author(s): Delhaes Laurence, Harun Azian, Chen Sharon C.A., Nguyen Quoc, Slavin Monica, Heath Christopher H., Maszewska Krystyna, Halliday Catriona, Robert Vincent, Sorrell Tania C., Meyer Wieland
Primary Institution: Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
Hypothesis
What is the genetic variability among Australian Scedosporium isolates?
Conclusion
The study identified genetic diversity among Scedosporium isolates and dismissed two suspected outbreaks.
Supporting Evidence
- Three distinct genetic groups were identified among the isolates.
- Scedosporium prolificans was the most common species isolated.
- Genetic variability was highest in Scedosporium apiospermum isolates.
- No correlation was found between genotype and geographic origin.
- ITS-RFLP analysis effectively distinguished between S. aurantiacum and S. apiospermum.
- Coincident building construction was noted in 22.5% of cases.
- Invasive disease was more likely to be caused by S. prolificans.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at different Scedosporium germs from patients in Australia and found that they are all a bit different from each other.
Methodology
The study used internal transcribed spacer–restriction fragment length polymorphism (ITS-RFLP) analysis, ITS sequencing, and PCR fingerprinting to genotype the isolates.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited number of isolates from specific patient populations.
Limitations
The study may not represent all geographic regions or patient populations due to its focus on Australian isolates.
Participant Demographics
The study included 119 patients, with a male to female ratio of 1.3:1.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Confidence Interval
2.0, 14.2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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