Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium, that causes severe infections in human beings. Regarding to its inherent antibiotic resistance and capacity for biofilm formation, infections caused by this pathogen can present significant therapeutic challenges. This organism can adapt to a wide range of environments and is a prevalent cause of hospital-acquired infections, mainly affecting critically ill patients, such as those in intensive care units. Its potential to cause infections, particularly in immunocompromised people and those with chronic respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis, emphasizes its clinical relevance.
Methods: The identification and characterization of P. aeruginosa infections rely on a variety of analytical approaches. These encompass traditional microbiological methods, including culture techniques, biochemical assays, as well as cutting-edge biosensors that provide rapid and portable detection. Molecular techniques, such as PCR, are commonly used to identify specific genetic markers, while antigen detection methods like ELISA assist in pathogen identification through immune responses. Furthermore, analytical techniques for detecting quorum sensing molecules and virulence factors offer valuable insights into biofilm formation and pathogenic regulation. Together, these methods facilitate a thorough diagnosis and deeper understanding of P. aeruginosa infections.
Results: The review of the literature reveals that P. aeruginosa employs multiple virulence factors to establish and sustain infections. The pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa is multifactorial, involving the combination of virulence factors, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance. One of the most critical features of P. aeruginosa is its ability to form biofilms, which are dense bacterial communities surrounded by an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS), enhancing bacterial survival in hostile environments. Furthermore, P. aeruginosa has a remarkable ability to develop antibiotic resistance. The clinical implications of P. aeruginosa infections are significant, especially in hospital settings, where it is a major cause of ventilator-associated pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and surgical wound infections.
Conclusion: P. aeruginosa remains a formidable pathogen in clinical settings due to its adaptability, virulence, and multidrug resistance. Its capacity to form biofilms, complicates treatment, especially in chronic or hospital-acquired infections. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of its pathogenicity is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies. Despite significant advancements in uncovering these mechanisms, effective treatment remains a challenge. In addition to these molecular mechanisms, recent studies have also shed the light on immune responses and bacterial defense mechanisms in biofilm-related infections. These insights pave the way for therapeutic innovations, such as modulating immune activity to reduce tissue damage, enhancing the interaction between antibiotics and the immune system, and disrupting biofilm structures. Continued exploration of these strategies, alongside better diagnostic techniques, would be essential for mitigating P. aeruginosa-related infections and reducing the patient’s infections.