Cystic fibrosis related diabetes is not independently associated with increased Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection: Longitudinal data from the UK CF Registry

Abstract Introduction Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is common in the sputum of people with cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD), raising the question as to whether this is a risk factor for its acquisition. We investigated this at a population level. Methods We analysed national Cystic Fibrosis Registry data 2011–2015 for 8047 people with CF > age 6 years, looking at demographics, diagnosis of CFRD, lung function and sputum microbiology; using descriptive and multivariate strategies to establish independent predictors for S. maltophilia culture and associated outcomes. Results S. maltophilia was present in 1148 (14.1%). Although univariate analysis confirmed it was more prevalent in those with CFRD, when adjusted for other clinical parameters there was no longer a relationship. Markers of more severe lung disease were independent risk-factors for S. maltophilia . Conclusion Although S. maltophilia is more common in people with CFRD, it is not an independent risk-factor for S. maltophilia acquisition.