Conclusions
We found associations between frequent fungal detection and bacterial
co-infection with P. aeruginosa and S. maltophilia , but
not MSSA or MRSA in people with CF. In those with a diagnosis of ABPA,
frequent fungal detection was associated with worse clinical outcomes
with high rates of comorbidities, co-infections with pathogenic
bacteria, and worse lung disease. However, we did not detect a similar
association between fungal detection and clinical outcomes when
controlling for ABPA diagnosis. Future prospective studies are needed to
determine the relationship between fungal infection, bacterial
co-infections and development of ABPA.