Microbiology
Summary
Listeria monocytogenes is a gram-positive bacillus primarily associated with infections in pregnant women. It is characterized by its beta-hemolysis, tumbling motility with flagella outside the cell, and "actin rocket" propulsion when intracellular. These bacteria can survive and multiply in near-freezing temperatures, which enables them to contaminate refrigerated food items such as unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses, and packaged meat. Pregnant women are nearly 20 times more likely to contract listeriosis, which, depending on the stage of pregnancy, can lead to early termination or diseases in newborns, such as meningitis. In addition to newborns, Listeria can cause meningitis in adults over 60 years old. Treatment for listeria typically includes the antibiotic ampicillin.
Lesson Outline
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FAQs
L. monocytogenes is a gram-positive bacillus with tumbling motility. It is catalase-positive, beta-hemolytic, and capable of growing in cold environments. L. monocytogenes is responsible for the infection listeriosis, which can manifest as meningitis and other severe illnesses. Ampicillin is commonly used to treat these infections.
Tumbling motility is a unique type of bacterial movement exhibited by L. monocytogenes. This characteristic allows the bacterium to move within the host cell by hijacking the host's actin cytoskeleton. It forms actin rockets, propelling the bacteria from one cell to another and facilitating tissue invasion and spread of the infection within the host.
L. monocytogenes' ability to grow in cold environments makes it particularly dangerous as a foodborne pathogen. The bacterium can survive and multiply in refrigerated foods, leading to outbreaks of listeriosis. This cold tolerance emphasizes the importance of proper food handling, cooking, and storage practices to prevent Listeria infections.
Listeriosis, caused by L. monocytogenes, can present in various ways, ranging from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to severe complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and septicemia. Listeriosis is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infection in the newborn. Immunocompromised individuals and the elderly are also at increased risk of severe illness and complications.
Ampicillin is the standard treatment for listeriosis. In some cases, gentamicin may be administered in combination with ampicillin for a synergistic effect. Pregnant women, newborns, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly should be the focus of prevention efforts due to their increased susceptibility to severe illness and complications related to listeriosis.
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