Bacillus anthracis Flashcards
1
Q
Where is Bacillus anthracis found?
A
Bacillus anthracis is found in
- herbivores
- vutaneous
2
Q
How does Bacillus anthracis enter its host
A
- inhaled
- ingested endospores
3
Q
What are the Virulence factors of Bacillus anthracis?
A
1) unique protein capsule (polymer of D-glutamic acid: antiphagocytic
2) non-motile
3) virulence depends on acquiring 2 plamids; one carries gene for protein capsule other carries gene for exotoxin
4
Q
What are the clinical manifestations for Bacillus anthracis?
A
- anthrax toxin (exotoxin): 3 proteins (protective Ag(PA), edema factor (EF), letjal factor (LF)
a. anthrax: painless black vesicles; can be fatal if untreated, woolsorter’s pulmonaru disease, abdominal pain, vomiting and blooody diarrhea (infection results in permanenr immunity if pt survives)
