Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative rod measuring 0.5 to 0.8 μm by 1.5 to 3.0 μm. Almost all strains are motile by means of a single polar flagellum, and some strains have two or three flagella (Fig. 27-2). The flagella heat-labile antigens (H antigen). The significance of antibody directed against these antigens, aside from its value in serologic classification, is unknown. Clinical isolates usually have pili, which may be antiphagocytic and probably aids in bacterial attachment, thereby promoting colonization.
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