PCR based identification of exotoxin A-producing Pseudomonas aeroginosa isolated from burn wound infection

Exotoxin A (exoA) is a major pathogenic factor in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This non-fermenting gram-negative bacillus causes a wide range of infections. P. aeruginosa is a major cause of hospital-acquired infections. With this view, this study was aimed to identify P. aeruginosa strains carrying the exoA gene isolated from burn wounds. As part of the cross-sectional study, 110 samples of burns were collected in several hospitals. After identification of bacterial strains by biochemical and microbiological tests, genomic DNA was extracted. PCR reaction was performed for screening for exoA gene. After examining DNA extracted using quantitative (Nano drop with OD260/280=1.8-2nm) and qualitative (electrophoresis on the 0.7% gel agarose) methods, 75.4% (n; 83 of 110) isolates carried the exoA gene. The high prevalence of the exoA gene in P. aeruginosa strains indicate the important role of this exoenzyme in the spread of infection in burn patients. Therefore, it is recommended that people with burn infections be screened for the exoA gene.