Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is one of the most common and clinically important pathogens in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Chronic Pa colonization in CF patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Pa strains causing early infection are usually antibiotic sensitive and have low bacterial density in the airways. As a result, the treatment strategy has shifted from suppressive therapy in patients chronically colonized by Pa to attempts at early eradication therapy as soon as Pa is detected. In the literature, different treatment regimens have been studied. However, the optimal treatment regimen and duration of treatment are not yet determined. In this article, an overview on the natural history of early Pa colonization and the history of eradication treatment is given. Moreover, the results of the different eradication treatment trials and directions for future research are discussed.

SAPF has to be included to the differential diagnosis of patients with persistent pleural effusion after spinal surgery. This case illustrates the importance of BTP in diagnosing SAPF, especially in cases where major therapeutic consequences may need to be drawn.