Prevalence of shared Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABSC) in the Queensland cystic fibrosis population

Abstract

Objectives: Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABSC) lung infections are increasing in prevalence in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Near identical strains of MABSC circulating in the cystic fibrosis population including dominant global clones have been reported (Bryant et al, Science, 2016). This study is investigating the prevalence of shared MABSC strains in the CF population of Queensland, Australia. Methods: MABSC respiratory isolates stored at the Queensland Mycobacterium Reference Laboratory were included in the study. The collection was comprised of 179 MABSC isolates from 71 people with CF isolated from 2000 to 2016. All isolates underwent whole genome sequencing (WGS) using the Illumina HiSeq platform. Results: Of the 71 people with CF (adults = 40; paediatrics = 31) included in the study, 38 participants had a single MABSC isolate sequenced and 33 participants had multiple MABSC isolates sequenced (average number of isolates 4; range 2-11). Therewas evidence of globally circulating clones in the Queensland CF cohort (especially dominant circulating clone 1 within M. abscessus subspecies abscessus strain) throughout the collection period (2000-2016). Further analysis of this dataset will determine if these globally circulating clones are detected in other patient cohorts (e.g. bronchiectasis) and in the healthcare and home environment, specifically potable water. Conclusion: Global clones of MABSC previously reported (Bryant et al, Science, 2016) were found in the Queensland CF population.L6229310672018-07-12 <br />