Serum antibodies to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis as a diagnostic tool: A systematic review

Background: A systematic literature review of the last 40 years on the research of serum antibodies to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis and its utility as a diagnostic tool. Methods: Research papers in English, Portuguese, and Spanish were accessed through electronic databases (PubMed, Medline, LILACS, and SciELO). Results: 26 studies were assessed. ELISA technique was the most commonly used technique to detect serum P. aeruginosa antibodies. The most consistent results were those in which the response against the antigen St-Ag:1-17 was evaluated. The accuracy levels of the ELISA technique remain Controversial, but most studies showed a good correlation between antibody titers and microbiological culture. Conclusions: The detection of serum antibodies to P. aeruginosa shows capacity for early detection of this pathogen and potential utility and viability of incorporation in the diagnostic routine of patients with cystic fibrosis. (C) 2014 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.