Haemophilus, Bordetella, And Legionella Flashcards
How is H.influenza transmitted?
Via respiratory route.
Where is H.influenza found?
Humans only.
What is the virulence of H.influenza?
- Capsule: 6 types a-f.
- Attachment pili
- IgA1 protease
What is the most virulent capsule type of H.influenza?
b
What are the toxins of H.influenza?
- Cytolethal distending toxin (CDT)
2. Hemolysin
What can encapsulated H.influenza (usually type B) cause?
- Meningitis (3-36 months).
- Acute epiglottitis
- Septic arthritis in infants
- Sepsis (asplenic patients)
- Pneumonia
What can nonencapsulated H.influenza cause?
- Otitis media
- Sinusitis
- COPD exacerbation and pneumonia
How can we identify H.influenza?
- Gram stain
- Chocolate agar - high CO2 environment at 37C.
- ELISA - Latex particle agglutination
- Positive Quellung reaction due to its capsule (like S.pneumoniae).
What is important to keep in mind about H.influenza?
It requires two factors for growth (both found in blood).
- X factor: hematin
- V factor: NAD+
How is Haemophilus ducreyi transmitted?
Sexually
What are the toxins of H.ducreyi?
No exotoxins
What can H.ducreyi cause?
Chancroid
What is a chancroid?
Painful genital ulcer, often associated with unilateral swollen lymph nodes that can rupture, releasing pus.
How can we identify H.ducreyi?
Gram stain and culture of ulcer exudate and pus released from swollen lymph node.
What is important to keep in mind about H.ducreyi?
Requires X factor (hematin) only.
How is Gardnerella vaginalis transmitted?
Sexually transmitted disease.