Corynebacterium
Corynebacterium
Corynebacterium (pronunciation: kor-uh-nee-bak-TEER-ee-uhm) is a genus of bacteria that are Gram-positive and aerobic. They are rod-shaped, and are commonly found in nature in the soil and water. Some species are part of the normal flora of animals, including the skin and mucous membranes of humans.
Etymology
The term "Corynebacterium" comes from the Greek words "koryne" meaning "club", and "bakterion" meaning "little rod". This is in reference to the club-like appearance of this type of bacteria under the microscope.
Species
There are several species of Corynebacterium that are of medical importance. These include:
- Corynebacterium diphtheriae, the causative agent of diphtheria
- Corynebacterium jeikeium, which can cause infections in immunocompromised individuals
- Corynebacterium urealyticum, a cause of urinary tract infections
- Corynebacterium striatum, which can cause respiratory tract infections
Pathogenesis
Corynebacterium species are generally non-motile, do not form spores, and contain a high G+C content in their DNA. Some species, such as C. diphtheriae, produce exotoxins that can cause damage to the host organism.
Treatment
Treatment of Corynebacterium infections typically involves antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin. In the case of diphtheria, antitoxin is also administered.
Prevention
Prevention of Corynebacterium infections can be achieved through good hygiene practices and, in the case of diphtheria, vaccination with the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Corynebacterium
- Wikipedia's article - Corynebacterium
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