Gram-positive bacilli Flashcards
What are the identifiable features of C. diphtheriae infection?
Pharyngeal infection
“Bull neck” swelling of neck
Pseudomembrane causing airway obstruction
What are the other toxin-mediated diseases caused by C. diphtheriae infection?
Myocarditis
Arrhythmias
Heart failure
Neuropathy or cranial nerve paralysis
What is the main virulence factor of C. Diphtheriae that causes diphtheria?
Local and systemic effects of an exotoxin produced by the C. diphtheriae bacilli
How is diphtheria diagnosed?
PCR or culture on throat swab. Once C. diphtheriae infection confirmed, do PCR to check for toxin production
How is diphtheria treated?
- Antiserum to neutralise the exotoxin
- Erythromycin/penicillin
What are the 3 main virulence factors of B. anthracis?
Antiphagocytic protein capsule
Oedema toxin
Lethal toxin
What are the common clinical presentations of cutaneous anthrax?
Eschar, vesicles, oedema
How is anthrax diagnosed?
Culture on vesicle fluid or blood/sputum culture
How is anthrax treated?
Ciprofloxacin or penicillin
What is B. cereus associated with?
Fried rice
What symptoms do B. cereus infections cause?
Rapid onset vomitting, diarrhoea & abdominal pain if toxin pre-formed
How is Listeria Monocytogenes mainly transmitted?
Mostly food-borne in animal produce or salads with animal manure residues
Is Listeria an intracellular or extracellular organism?
Intracellular
What are the 3 common infections caused by Listeria Monocytogenes?
Gastroenteritis
Bacteraemia
Meningitis/encephalitis
What are the groups most at-risk of Listeria infection?
Elderly patients
Pregnant patients
Neonates
Patients with co-morbidities
