Early detection using qPCR of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in children with cystic fibrosis undergoing eradication treatment.

Pediatric CF patients with new-onset Pa infections have detectable Pa-specific DNA in the year preceding a positive culture, however, there is no significant difference in Pa DNA concentrations between patients in whom AET is successful compared to those in whom it fails. Therefore, early molecular detection of Pa may not lead to improved eradication success rates.