Chapter 25: Diseases Caused By Bacteria

Streptococcus agalactiae

Leading cause of bacterial sepsis and meningitis in newborns Common in raw milk, and it can present in newborns within the first five days of life after contracting the bacteria for the mother during the birthing process. Characterized by lethargy, jaundice, respiratory distress, shock, pneumonia, and anorexia. It is 50 percent fatal for low-weight neonates. A primary cause of uterine infections accompanied by fever in postpartum women. As early as seven days, or as late as several months after delivery, symptoms of sepsis, meningitis, seizures, and psychomotor retardation may appear in mothers.

Klebsiella pneumoniae

Normal gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals, but it differs from other genera of enterics in that it is nonmotile. It possesses a polysaccharide capsule that resists human phagocytic cells, and it retards the absorption of antimicrobials. This gram-negative rod is a frequent cause of lower respiratory tract infections, especially in hospitals. Among immunosuppressed populations, this has been known to cause urinary tract infections, wound infections, and outbreaks of nosocomial infections in newborn nurseries

Which of the following diseases is caused by a spirochete? a. botulism b. leptospirosis c. gas gangrene d. food poisoning

b

Listeria monocytogenes

A gram-positive, non-spore-forming bacillus, which is becoming recognized as a foodborne pathogen. Listeriosis is usually a mild, symptomless disease in healthy adults. However, among those with compromised immune system function it can be fatal. Capable of surviving within the white blood cells even after it has been engulfed by them. The bacillus can move from one macrophage to a neighboring macrophage, and infection frequently leads to fatal meningitis This thrives at refrigerator temperatures and has been isolated from a variety of foods, including raw milk, cheese made from unpasteurized milk, hot dogs, and prepackaged meat products Shed in the feces of infected animals, widely found in soil and water Infected pregnant women, the fetal mortality rate is 60% Uterine infection may also result in a high rate of spontaneous abortion and stillbirths

Corynebacteria

A group of bacteria that are gram-positive, non-spore-forming rods that cause a wide range of infections. Many are not well categorized, so there is a low rate of identification of these lesser-known species as pathogens of human disease. Bacteria of this genus are facultative aerobic, free-living saprophytes, which can be found worldwide in fresh- and saltwater, soil, and the air. The most widely studied and understood species in this genus is the diphtheria bacillus Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Other species are becoming better understood as opportunistic human pathogens C. urealyticum is the causative agent of urinary infections. C. pseudotuberculosis can cause respiratory illness in humans who have been in contact with infected sheep. C. pseudodiphtheriticum, C. striatum, and Rothia dentocariosa are all part of the normal flora of the human nose and throat and they can all cause infections in humans.

Dysentery

A severe form of diarrhea with blood and mucus in the stool. The blood and mucus result from damage to the colon by the Shigella toxin, although the bacteria remain in the small intestine. Symptoms and signs appear approximately 24 to 48 hours after ingestion of the microorganism. Sufferers may have up to 20 bowel movements per day, abdominal cramps, and fever. If untreated, the mortality rate of dysentery can be as high as 20 percent

Describe the secondary stage of Syphilis.

About 2-12 weeks after the chancre disappears, the secondary stage of the disease may begin in some individuals. Hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, malaise, and low-grade fever Rash that is unusual in the it can occur on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. All lesions of the skin and mucous membranes in this stage are highly infectious May either relapse for several weeks, or it may go entirely unnoticed by the infected individual.

Typhoid fever

Acute, contagious, bacterial infection of the digestive system. It is characterized by the presence of necrotic lesions in Peyer's patches, mesenteric glands, and the spleen. The incubation period for typhoid fever is about two weeks, and typhoid is caused by the Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi bacterium, which is not found in animals. It is transmitted from one human to another through human feces. Proper sewage disposal, water treatment, and food sanitation all help to reduce the incidence of typhoid. Causes rose spots on the chest or abdomen Other complications: Prolonged fever Headache Abdominal pain Nose bleeds Whitish furlike material on the tongue Discoloration of the tongue Typhoid Mary was a chronic carrier of S. enterica Typhi and allegedly spread the bacteria to several people as a cook in the early 1900s

Botulism

Caused by an obligate anaerobic, gram-positive bacterial rod known as Clostridium botulinum. Botulinum toxin is the exotoxin produced by C. botulinum that causes food intoxication after ingesting the bacteria in contaminated foods such as home-canned vegetables, home-cured meats, and other preserved foods. The most common form of this in infants results from the ingestion of honey contaminated with C. botulinum spores. Only a small amount of this toxin may block the release of acetylcholine from the synaptic end of nerves resulting in death. Characterized by: Paralysis Cardiac failure Respiratory failure Nausea Double vision Blurred vision Difficulty swallowing Symptoms may appear as early as 2 hours of as late as 3 to 8 days after ingestion Found in the soil and water sediment, and wounds that become infected with the spores may develop into a systemic disease similar to food-borne intoxication

Vibrio cholerae

Causes Asiatic cholera, which is also known as epidemic cholera gram-negative rod with a single, polar flagellum. Bacterium found in fecally contaminated water. When untreated, cholera has a 50 percent mortality rate in comparison to treated cases in which the mortality is near 1 percent. Grows in the small intestine, producing an enterotoxin that results in the secretion of chlorides, bicarbonates, and water. These high levels of electrolytes and water cause "rice-water" stool. The loss of between three and five gallons of fluid and electrolytes from the intestines each day causes fatal shock. The blood becomes extremely viscous due to the loss of fluids, causing failure of the organs

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Causes tuberculosis Highly resistant, rod-shaped bacterium with a high lipid content in its cell wall. The high lipid content allows this bacterium to be resistant to desiccation and staining. Can survive for weeks in dried sputum and is resistant to antiseptics and many disinfectants. In individuals with suppressed immune systems, this pathogen invades attacking macrophages. Once the macrophages engulf the microbe in the lungs, a tubercule forms. After a few weeks, the macrophages die, forming a caseous, or cheese-like, center in the tubercle. If the disease does not become dormant at this point, the caseous center enlarges in the process of liquefaction, allowing an air-filled tuberculosis cavity to form in which the bacteria grow. Liquefaction continues until the tubercle ruptures, allowing bacilli to invade the bronchiole and be disseminated throughout the respiratory system. Approximately 20% of TB cases were estimated to be resistant to at least one drug Often requires the use of more than one drug. Many strains of this are drug-fast, meaning that they are multidrug resistant.

Staphylococcal Food Intoxication

Gastrointestinal disorder caused by the enterotoxins produced by the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. During the preparation of food, the S. aureus bacteria are usually killed through the process of cooking. After the food is cooked it is easily contaminated by food handlers who have bacteria on their hands as a part of their normal body microbiota. Food can also become contaminated by mechanical vectors like flies or ants, which can spread bacteria on their legs. If the food is then allowed to stand at room temperature to cool, or if it is cooked slowly in large masses, or if it is kept warm for any length of time at low temperatures, the bacteria have an opportunity to form enterotoxins. Reheating the food will kill the bacteria but not the toxin.

Describe the Tertiary Stage of Syphilis.

In about 25% of the cases of this, the disease does not progress beyond the secondary stage, another 25% of the cases become latent and no further symptoms are experienced by the infected individual, whether treated medically or not. The other 50% of cases of this develop into tertiary stage 2 to 20 year later. During the latent period, the individual may experience no symptoms of the disease A rubberlike lesion known as a gumma appear on the bone, viscera , and skin. May begin to damage the internal organs, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. The aorta can be affected causing it to weaken. A loss of motor control can occur in cases of this in which the central nervous system becomes infected. Can lead to seizures, blindness, and death.

Cutaneous Anthrax

Majority of anthrax cases When wounds such as skin cuts, abrasions, or insect bites become contaminated with anthrax spores, a small lesion appears about two to three days later. The lesion develops into a ring of small blisters surrounding a dark center that eventually ulcerates and dries. This area of dead tissue in known as an eschar, which does not form pus or cause pain Within two to three weeks, the eschar dries, separates form the skin, and falls off, leaving a scar If a septic infection occurs, its symptoms are fever, malaise, and headache, although in normal cases of this, septic infection doesn't occur Without antibiotic treatment, fatality rates can be as high as 20%

Treponema pallidum

Causes the sexually transmitted disease, Syphilis A bacterial spirochete with three flagella inserted into each end of the cell, providing it a graceful motility in fluids. Because of its outer layer of lipids this causes little response from the body's immune system and has, therefore, become known as a Teflon® pathogen. Syphilis has often been called "the great imitator" because so many of its signs and symptoms are indistinguishable from those of other diseases. Spread through direct sexual contact with someone who has an active primary or secondary syphilitic lesion. These lesions are typically found on the genitals, which include the vagina and cervix in females and the penis in males. Nongenital contact with a lesion on the lips or anus may also spread the disease. Transmitted from mother to fetus, resulting in congenital syphilis. Genital sores caused by syphilis in adults also make it easier to transmit and acquire HIV infection sexually. Antibiotics will kill this and prevent further damage. Wear condoms!! But, they don't provide complete protection because syphilis sores can be on areas not covered by a condom Three stages of syphilis- primary, secondary, and tertiary

Neisseria meningitidis

Meningococcus Found in the nose and throat of up to 30 percent of asymptomatic individuals. An agent of endemic and epidemic meningitis, meningococcemia, pneumonia, purulent arthritis, eye infections, urogenital tract infections, and rectal infections. The virulence of this is due to the presence of a capsule and pili, and to the production of endotoxins. Can be spread through oral and respiratory droplets, or direct contact with infected sites on the body. Individuals living in close contact (i.e., college dorms and military barracks) are at an increased risk of contracting epidemic meningitis The carrier state may last several days to several months Infection of the throat with this leads to bacteremia and meningitis Meningococcal meningitis generally infects children under the age of two, although all age groups may be included Mortality rate is high (25%) Characterized by: abrupt onset of headache, stiff neck, and sometimes fever A rash may develop, and spontaneous blood clotting may also occur. Sometimes the disease is fulminant, resulting in a condition known as Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome. In these cases, death occurs within 12-48 hours from onset as a result of bleeding within the adrenal glands. Treated with penicillin and other antibiotics

Gas Gangrene

Myonecrosis Necrosis of tissue Caused by a disruption in the flow of blood to tissues. It is often a complication of diabetes mellitus, especially of the feet and legs. When C. perfringens multiplies, it causes the fermentation of carbohydrates in the tissues, which releases carbon dioxide and hydrogen gases. The toxins move through the swollen tissue causing further necrosis of neighboring tissue. Often fatal, spreading throughout the body via the blood.

Describe the primary stage of Syphilis.

Noted by the appearance of a chancre, which is a small hard ulcer at the site of infection (e.g., penis, anus, vagina, cervix, or mouth) appearing approximately 10 to 90 days after contact A serous exudate forms in the center of this painless lesion The chancres abound with treponemes, and they are extremely infectious. It's frequently not visible in females because it appears on the cervix, or the vaginal wall. The chancre may ne present in the anal canal without the knowledge of the infected individual. No systemic signs or symptoms of disease during this stage In a few weeks the chancre disappears.

Otitis Media

Often caused by the bacterium S. pneumoniae, although other microorganisms such as Haemophilus influenzae and Staphylococcus aureus are also known causes. An infection of the fluids of the middle ear, and it is often a complication of the common cold and infections of the nose and throat. S. pneumoniae related this is primarily due to an endogenous infection following other upper respiratory tract illnesses such as a cold, the flu, or allergies. This bacteria may be spread through contact with contaminated water found in swimming pools, through eardrum puncture, and through skull fractures. This causes pressure behind the eardrum resulting in earaches As a result of the narrow diameter of a child's eustachian tubes, these passages become easily occluded by bacterial colonies When blockage occurs frequently, surgical tubes may be implanted to help keep the eustachian tube open. Treated with antibiotics such as penicillin

Peptic and duodenal ulcers

Peptic ulcers may occur in the lower esophagus, the stomach, or the upper small intestine. Peptic ulcers are typically caused by the action of gastric acid and the enzyme pepsin. These chemicals act on the mucosal layer of the digestive tract causing damage to the tissues. The Helicobacter pylori bacterium is also associated with peptic and duodenal ulcers. The use of analgesics—which are medications to control pain—may also contribute to ulcer formation and aggravation. As more is understood about H. pylori, an increasing number of studies show an increased risk of gastroadenocarcinomas in individuals infected with H. pylori

Leptospira interrogans

Spirochete that causes leptospirosis. A disease of animals, although it can cause liver and kidney disease in humans. A characteristically hooked end when viewed under a microscope. Humans become infected with the bacterium when they come in contact with the contaminated waste of infected animals or infected water or soil. Dogs, rats, and other rodents are the most common reservoirs for this in the United States. Live in the lumen of renal tubules and are excreted in the urine of the host. Can survive in neutral waters for months. 100-150 cases reported each year in the U.S. Symptoms begins about one week after infection Most likely to enter humans through nonintact skin or mucous membranes Symptoms that typically subside within a few few days include: headache, muscle ache, chills, and fever Weil's disease, a more severe, systemic infection may also result from this, may be fatal, can include renal infection, hepatic infection, or central nervous infection

Haemophilus influenzae

The causative agent of influenzal meningitis. A highly virulent gram-negative, nonmotile bacterium. Its high virulence is a function of its unique capsule and antigens on its outer membrane, which have been shown to paralyze the sweeping motion of ciliated respiratory epithelium. Prior to the development of effective vaccines accounted for more than 95% of meningitis cases in children under the age of 5. Continues to be responsible for approximately 45% of the reported cases of meningitis in the U.S. Characterized by: Irritability Poor feeding in infants Fever Severe headache Nausea Vomiting Pain and stiffness in neck when flexed Pain in back when chin is flexed toward chest Unusual body posture Sensitivity to light Received its name erroneously because it was thought to be the causative agent of the influenza pandemic of 1918. It is now understood that the presence of this bacterial rod in nasal and lung cultures taken from infected individuals was actually the result of a secondary infection. Influenza is actually caused by a virus and not the Haemophilus influenzae bacterium Occurs mainly between the age of six months and six years, and it is the primary cause of childhood

Lobar pneumonia

The most common cause is S. pneumoniae Isolated to the individual lobe of the lung where the infection occurs, although it can become systemic. If two lobes are involved, the resultant infection is known as double pneumonia. Not usually a primary infection; rather, it results from disturbance of the normal defense barriers of the body. Predisposing conditions include alcoholism, anesthesia, malnutrition, and viral infection of the respiratory system. Involves the bronchi and the alveoli where edematous fluids are produced. The local production of fluid in the alveoli contributes to the infection's localization within the lobe of the lung. The vaccine is usually used for the elderly Characterized by: Acute onset fever Chills Dyspnea (difficulty in breathing) Chest pain Bloody sputum

Eschericia coli (E. coli)

The most significant opportunistic pathogen of all the enterics This bacillus is common in human intestinal flora. Most strains of this are motile and generally contain both pili and fimbriae. Can cause several types of diarrheal illnesses, meningitis in newborns, urinary tract infections, and infections of wounds. Traveler's diarrhea is caused by a strain of this. It is found in tropical and subtropical climates, especially in developing countries. They may acquire this illness due to poor hygiene standards, inadequate sources of drinking water, and a lack of proper sanitation, Normally a self-limiting disease characterized by low-grade fever, non-bloody watery diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps Enteroinvasive E. coli, Enterohemorrhagic E. coli

DTaP Vaccine

The original vaccine against whooping cough wat the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine, which was developed in the 1930's. This is no longer used because it causes mild side effects in about 20% of immunized children Currently this vaccine is used to immunize children against these diseases. Given to children at the ages of 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years old at the same time as several other vaccines

Which of the following diseases characterized by a bull's-eye rash? a. legionnaires' disease b. Lyme disease c. anthrax d. toxic shock syndrome

b

Whooping cough a. Clostridium perfringens b. Bordetella pertussis c. Streptococcus pyogenes d. Vibrio cholerae e. Francisella tularensis

b

Corynebacteria have been shown to cause which of the following types of infections in humans? a. stomach ulcers, meningitis, and pneumonia b. paralysis, demyelization of peripheral neurons, colitis, and enteritis c. endocarditis, urinary infections, and respiratory illness after contact with infected sheep d. abdominal cramps, diarrhea with pus, rice-water stool and bloody vomiting

c

Scarlet fever a. Clostridium perfringens b. Bordetella pertussis c. Streptococcus pyogenes d. Vibrio cholerae e. Francisella tularensis

c

Streptococus

gram-positive spherical cells that appear alone, in pairs, or in chains. Most species are facultative anaerobes and are virulent due to the toxins and enzymes they produce. The most common and dangerous pathogens to humans, but many species are saprophytes that accelerate decomposition in the dead human body. There are three species of Streptococcus of clinical importance to embalmers: S. agalactiae, S. pneumoniae, and S. pyogenes

Streptococcus pneumoniae

pneumococcus Most common cause of bacterial meningitis in adults Half of the cases of pneumococcal meningitis occur in children under four. The causative agent of pneumococcal meningitis, which typically follows other infections with this such as otitis media and pneumonia. Found in the nose and throat, and its capsule makes it highly virulent. The mortality rate of pneumococcal meningitis is high (40 percent), and the course of the disease is rapid. Vaccines for pneumococcal meningitis are available

What remains a significant contributor to both human morbidity and mortality?

Bacterial disease

Staphylococci aureus

Bacterium associated with several toxic infections of the body. It begins on the surface of the skin where it penetrates the integumentary barrier through hair follicles causing a pimple. A more serious hair follicle infection is known as a furuncle, or boil. A furuncle is a superficial skin abscess, which is a localized area of pus surrounded by inflamed and necrotic tissue in which blood clots in the vessels and forms a "core." The core is either expelled or reabsorbed. If the body fails to contain the spread of an abscess, the surrounding tissue is invaded, forming a carbuncle, which is a hard, round, deep inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue under the skin. Carbuncles are common in cases of diabetes mellitus, requiring topical disinfection during embalming because the lesions contain numerous bacteria. MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococci aureus)

Why should antibiotics be continued after the symptoms cease?

It is possible for bacterial infections to remain dormant in the body for many years, only to surface at a later date causing severe disease.

Legionella pneumophilia

Legionellosis is a disease of the respiratory tract caused by a bacterial infection of Legionella pneumophilia. Symptoms of Legionellosis, or Legionnaires' disease are a high fever, cough, and symptoms of pneumonia. Found in the water of air-conditioning cooling towers, water faucets, shower heads, humidifiers, and contaminated respiratory therapy equipment, suggesting that it has an airborne transmission. The bacterium is resistant to chlorine for long periods. In cases of Legionnaire's disease, death may eventually result due to cardiovascular collapse.

Enterics

Members of the family Enterobacteriaceae are also known as this, which include the genera Escherichia, Klebsiella, Proteus, Salmonella, and Shigella. Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, facultatively anaerobic bacilli.

Bordetella

There are seven species of this genus Small gram-negative bacilli that are all obligate aerobic bacteria. This infections are contracted through the inhalation of aerosolized particles into the respiratory tract. These microbes are uniquely adapted to reproduce on the ciliated cells of respiratory epithelium. Although the organism remains localized within the respiratory tract, the toxins it produces have systemic effects

Tissue gas a. Clostridium perfringens b. Bordetella pertussis c. Streptococcus pyogenes d. Vibrio cholerae e. Francisella tularensis

a

Asiatic cholera a. Clostridium perfringens b. Bordetella pertussis c. Streptococcus pyogenes d. Vibrio cholerae e. Francisella tularensis

d

Which of the following diseases is characterized by sore throat, fever, fatigue, swelling of the neck, and a tough grayish pseudomembrane in the throat? a. rheumatic fever b. shigellosis c. typhoid d. diphtheria

d

Rabbit fever a. Clostridium perfringens b. Bordetella pertussis c. Streptococcus pyogenes d. Vibrio cholerae e. Francisella tularensis

e

Yersinia pestis

Over one-fourth of the population of Europe was killed in the Middle Ages due to the spread of this from infected rats to fleas and then to humans. Causative pathogen of bubonic plague. It is a gram-negative, short, plump rod that has a safety-pin appearance on staining. Also known as the black death, the plague receives this name from the dark hemorrhagenic areas present on the body. Isolated in rats, wild rodents, ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and chipmunks. Infection results from contact with infected animals, which can occur from scratches, skinning the animal, or similar contact. The disease spreads through the blood and lymph causing hyperplastic growths of the lymph nodes known as buboes. Death occurs in untreated cases of plague in less than a week after the appearance of symptoms. There is also a pneumonic form of plague in which the infection is found in the respiratory system. Pneumonic plague can be transmitted from person to person, and it is often a result of bubonic plague

Childbirth fever

Puerperal sepsis Childbed fever A septic disease mainly caused by S. pyogenes, although it may be caused by other bacteria. A nosocomial infection of the uterus resulting from childbirth or abortion. The S. pyogenes bacterium is spread to the uterus via contaminated surgical instruments or the hands of medical workers. The infection spreads from the uterus to the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis.

Diphtheria

Respiratory and cutaneous Corynebacterium diphtheriae causes this Readily killed by heat and most disinfectants, it is resistant to drying and remains viable in the environment for weeks. This toxin is extremely potent and is lethal for humans in small amounts because it is able to block the production of proteins in human eukaryotic cells. Humans are the only natural host for this Spread through airborne droplet transmission or hand to mouth contact. Symptoms occur within 2 to 5 days: Sore throat Red rash on the abdomen Fever Fatigue Swelling of the neck Bleeding in the throat Grayish-white pseudomembrane in the throat Paralysis The most common site of infection is the tonsils or pharynx, which can bleed as a result. A tough, grayish-white pseudomembrane forms in the throat. The membrane is localized in the pharynx and contains dead tissue, fibrin, and bacterial cells. If infection reaches the kidneys or heart, it can be acutely fatal. A red rash of the abdomen can also be present. Skin lesions are also possible in cases of this Can affect nerves causing partial paralysis due to the demyelinating of peripheral neurons by the diphtheria toxin Treated with antitoxins commercially produced in horses.

Bacillary dysentery

Shigellosis Caused by a group of anaerobic, gram-negative rods known as Shigella species. Found only in the intestinal tracts of humans, apes, and monkeys. Disease is spread via the fecal-oral route by flies, fingers, and contaminated food or water. Young children in daycare centers; the impoverished who live in overcrowded, inadequate housing; and, people who participate in anal-oral sex are at a higher risk of contracting shigellosis Shigella sonnei and S. flexneri Young adults approximately 25 years old are most likely to contract shigellosis, primarily the result of the occurrence of so-called gay bowel syndrome among homosexual men

Staphylococci

Spherical cells that may appear alone, in pairs, or in clusters that have been described as "bunches of grapes." Facultatively anaerobic microorganisms Nonmotile, and they do not form spores. Indigenous to the normal microbiota found on the skin and mucous membranes of both human and nonhuman animals. Infections caused by this are commonly spread through contact with contaminated fomites and close contact among humans in clinical settings. Produce coagulase, hyaluronidase, lipase Becoming multidrug resistant.

Clostridium

Spore-forming bacilli that are most frequently found in anaerobic infections or intoxications. Spread by either ingestion or contamination of open wounds with soil. Causative agents of botulism, foodborne intoxication, gas gangrene, and tetanus. After death, Clostridium perfringens is also the cause of a postmortem condition known as tissue gas.

C. tetani

Causative agent of the bacterial infection that leads to tetanus, which is also known as lockjaw. Obligate anaerobic, endospore-forming, gram-positive rod. It is found in soil and at higher concentrations in soil contaminated with animal feces. The symptoms of this disease are caused by its neurotoxin, which is released on the death and lysis of the bacteria by phagocytes. The toxin moves toward the central nervous system via the peripheral nerves and blood. The neurotoxin tetanospasmin prevents muscle relaxation, causing opposing muscles to contract at the same time. The muscles of the jaw are affected first, spreading to the respiratory muscles where death occurs via asphyxia. Deep puncture wounds with little bleeding, similar to those caused by stepping on a nail, provide an excellent reservoir for this A vaccine is available but it requires a booster every 10 years (DTaP).

Tissue gas

Caused by C. perfringens May result from the presence of gas gangrene in the deceased before death, from bacterial translocation during the process of decomposition, or from the use of contaminated instruments during the embalming of the deceased. Gases may form quite rapidly in the deceased, resulting in extreme disfigurement. Tissue damage is likely to occur in the soft tissues of the eyelids, neck, extremities, female breasts, and the male scrotum. Conditions that predispose the deceased to this include recent abdominal surgery; the presence of gangrene at the time of death; intestinal ulcerations or perforations; contaminated wounds of the skin; intestinal obstruction or hemorrhage; inadequate embalming; and contact with contaminated instruments

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)

Caused by Mycobacterium avium Found in soil, water, and house dust. Coastal marshes have higher concentrations of the organisms than other areas. M. avium is a cause of disease in poultry and swine, but animal to human transmission has not been shown to be an important factor in human disease. A serious bacterial infection affecting persons with HIV. Related to tuberculosis and is sometimes called Mycobacterium avium intracellulare. Usually found only in people with under 50 CD4+ T-cells, meaning that healthy individuals would not usually contract this disease. Affects the intestines and inner organs first, characterized by: Weight loss Fever Chills Night Sweats Swollen glands Abdominal pains Diarrhea Fatigue

Ophthalmia Neonatorum

Caused by N. gonorrhea During vaginal delivery, the infant's eyes may become infected from the presence of the bacteria in an infected mother's birth canal. Can cause lesions on the eye and eventual blindness, can also cause joint infection or a life-threatening blood infection in the baby Rare in the U.S.

Impetigo

Caused by S. pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus A localized skin infection that begins with small vesicles that progress into weeping lesions. After several days, a crust forms when the lesions dry. Children between two and five are most commonly infected. Spreads through insect bites, small abrasions in the skin, and contaminated hands on the face.

Strep throat

Caused by S. pyogenes, which is capable of producing injurious enzymes and toxins. Hyaluronidase, which is also known as spreading factor, is an enzyme produced by S. pyogenes that dissolves human connective tissues, allowing the organism to spread deep into the tissues. Common among children between 5 and 15. The symptoms appear within one to four days after exposure, including an acute onset of sore throat, malaise, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Spread by droplets and close contact, and is treated with antibiotics.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Half of the cases are associated with tampon use, while the other half are nosocomial infections. Nosocomial spread of this may result from surgical incisions, absorbent packing used after nasal surgery, and among women who have just given birth. Also been found in males and premenstrual females. Any wound caused by a strain of S. aureus that produces the TSS-1 toxin can cause this. Begins with a high fever, rash, and signs of dehydration due to watery diarrhea and vomiting for several days Patients may also develop severe hypotension, causing shock. The rash is usually isolated to the trunk of the body although it may spread. Best prevented by avoiding the used of tampons, using low absorbency tampons, and changing tampons frequently. ~5% of cases are fatal

Food Infection

Salmonella gastroenteritis, or salmonellosis, is a type of food infection in which Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis is ingested and grows by attaching to cells in the intestinal tract via fimbriae, approximately 8 to 36 hours after ingestion. Death associated with salmonellosis usually results from septicemia. Complications of salmonellosis include fever, chills, abdominal pain, and watery diarrhea. Meat products, especially poultry, are commonly contaminated with Salmonella bacteria To slow the transmission of Salmonella in the food preparation area, food handlers should thoroughly was their hands after dealing with any meats or eggs. Any items used in food preparation, such as cutting boards and mixing bowls, should be washed with soap and water after they have been in contact with raw meats or eggs.

Gastrointestinal Anthrax

Caused by the ingestion of B. anthracis spores The characteristics: Abdominal pain Nausea Anorexia Vomiting Bloody diarrhea Most difficult form of anthrax to diagnose The highest mortality rate out of anthrax

Borrelia burgdorferi

Causes Lyme borreliosis Gram-negative, highly flexible bacterial spirochete Arthropod-borne Transmitted by ticks, although other insects may also harbor the spirochete. Nymphs transmit the disease directly into human tissue by regurgitating during feeding. Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the United States, occurring most frequently between the months of June and September, when more people are outdoors. Although children were the first group to become infected, the disease affects people of all ages and both sexes. Deer and field mice are the most common reservoirs from which ticks feed. Infection with this cause a characteristic "bull's-eye" rash at the site of the bite. As the rash fades, flu-like symptoms appear. Has the ability to adhere to the endothelial cells of blood vessels, facilitating its growth If the disease enters a late stage, a pacemaker may be required to control damage caused to the heart by the spread of the bacteria The nervous system may also become involved, leading to paralysis of the face, meningitis, and encephalitis Arthritis often accompanies cases of Lyme disease due to the body's immune response to the pathogen. This might last for months or even years with relapsing episodes Long-term Lyme disease cases resemble the later stages of syphilis, caused by a spirochete of the same family as this.

C. perfringens caused Gastroenteritis

Form of food intoxication caused by improper handling of meat during the slaughtering of animals. Intestinal contents are allowed to contaminate meat as it is slaughtered. Cooking the meat lowers the oxygen level and provides obligate anaerobes like C. perfringens the opportunity to reproduce. Keeping foods warm for over 20 minutes and inadequate refrigeration are two main causes of the growth of C. perfringens colonies. These bacteria grow in the intestinal tract causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Most cases of food poisoning are mild, with symptoms appearing 8 to 12 hours after ingestion of the bacteria.

Campylobacter jejuni caused Gastroenteritis

Gram-negative, non-spore-forming rod with an S-shaped, "seagull-wing" appearance. Contracted through contact with infected pets (i.e., dogs, cats, birds), ingestion of contaminated water or dairy products, or ingestion of improperly cooked poultry. Can also be transmitted through sexual contact. Suffer from mild abdominal pain within 2 to 10 days after ingesting the organism. Bloody diarrhea may follow the initial signs of fever, chills, and, more rarely, nausea and vomiting. The disease usually resolves itself in two to six days, although untreated individuals may be carriers for several months.

Proteus Species

A genus of highly motile bacteria that is found in the human gastrointestinal tract. Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris are widely recognized human pathogens. Both species have been known to cause urinary tract infections, ear infections, and wound infections, particularly among burn patients. The colonies of these species have a unique odor that has been described as "burned chocolate." P. vulgaris is an obligate saprophyte that contributes to the decomposition of the body and the production of a ptomaine known as indole, which can inhibit proper cross-linking of proteins by the action of formaldehyde during the embalming process

Clostridium perfringens

A gram-positive, endospore-forming anaerobe that causes tissue gas in the postmortem state and gas gangrene, or myonecrosis, in the antemortem state. A saprophytic bacteria, meaning that it thrives on dead and decaying tissue. When it multiplies, it causes the fermentation of carbohydrates in the tissues, which releases carbon dioxide and hydrogen gases. The toxins move through the swollen tissue causing further necrosis of neighboring tissue. Found in soil and water in the environment, and it is part of the normal intestinal flora of humans.

Scarlet Fever

A bacterial disease of the upper respiratory system caused by certain strains of S. pyogenes that produce a toxin known as streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin (SPE). It is known as this because of the reddening toxin produced by the bacteria, which results in inflammation of the throat. The toxin causes a pinkish-red skin rash and high fever. The tongue is spotted with a strawberry-like appearance, after which it loses its upper membrane and becomes red and enlarged. The affected skin peels off of the body in a process known as desquamation. A communicable disease spread by inhalation of droplet spray. Does not have a high mortality rate Treated with antibiotics

Rheumatic fever

An autoimmune disease caused by a streptococcal infection when strep throat or scarlet fever aren't properly treated and there is a chronic infection. It occurs mainly between the ages of 4 and 18, where it develops as a type of arthritis noted by subcutaneous nodules at the joints. May lead to inflammation of the heart valves, where it is known as rheumatic heart disease. Rheumatic heart disease is characterized by vegetative lesions of the heart valves, which prevent the valves from properly closing, allowing the blood flow to reverse. In approximately 10% of cases, Sydenham's chorea or St. Vitus' dance, develops. St. Vitus' dance is characterized by purposeless involuntary movements during waking hours. Self-injury may occur from flailing arms and legs. In many cases, the condition disappears in a few months without treatment.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by this Spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact, including penis to vagina, penis to mouth, penis to anus, mouth to vagina, and mouth to anus contact. Ejaculation does not have to occur for gonorrhea to be transmitted or acquired. Humans are the only natural host for this An aerobic, gram-negative diplococcus. Uniquely virulent due to its capsule, pili, cell-wall proteins, endotoxin, and enzymes One of the most reported sexually transmitted disease in the U.S. Most prevalent in young, sexually active teenagers and adults The highest rates of infection are found in sexually active teenagers, young adults, and African Americans Extremely virulent Most common symptom is a pustular discharge from the genitalia and painful urination Symptoms of rectal infection include discharge, anal itching, soreness, bleeding, and sometimes painful bowel movements, which appear a few days after infection. Sterility is a complication of gonorrhea due to infection of the testicles or scar tissue formation in the vas deferens, which is the tube that leads sperms form the testes to the ejaculatory duct. Once a person is infected, it can be spread to others May be transferred to the eyes from the hands, leading to possible blindness. The heart, joints, meninges, and pharynx may also become involved Not virulent outside of the body and dies readily in adverse environmental conditions Treated with antibiotics

Spirochetes

Have a flexible, helical shape. Unicellular bacteria that are the causative agents of many important zoonotic diseases. Flexible cell wall that is wound with several fibrils. These flagella-like fibrils allow a variety of motility in liquids. Free-living and may survive as either pathogens or as part of the normal microbiota of a host. They can utilize carbohydrates, amino acids, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and carbon as energy sources. Depending on the species, they may be anaerobic, facultatively anaerobic, or aerobic. Spirochetes are gram-negative. Common genera of spirochetes include Borrelia, Leptospira, and Treponema

Whoop cough

Pertussis Caused by Bordetella pertussis It is one of the most highly communicable childhood diseases, infecting over 90 percent of susceptible households. Even in well-immunized populations like the United States, outbreaks of pertussis still occur every few years and isolated cases occur continuously. Adults appear to carry bacteria without symptoms, but they transmit the disease to children, especially when immunization rates decrease. The initial infection takes about one to two weeks to develop into a mild respiratory infection resembling the common cold The disease is highly communicable due to the large number of microorganisms in the respiratory tract Toxins released inhibit the normal immune system response in the human host One to two weeks after the initial stage of whooping cough, the bacteria impedes the action of the tiny hair-like cilia of the respiratory tract The mucus accumulates in the respiratory system The individual makes a whooping sound while gasping for air between violent coughs, occurs more at night The coughing occurs many times and is followed by vomiting Runs its course within about four weeks from initial infection, and it may take several weeks or months for complete recovery Less common but more severe complications related to pertussis are associated with its violent coughing episodes. These complications can include rupture of the alveoli in the lungs, which can permit inspired air to gain access to the subcutaneous tissues, resulting in a condition known as subcutaneous emphysema. Bleeding can also occur in the superficial blood vessels of the eyes and nose. Both umbilical and inguinal hernias can occur, as well as rupture of the diaphragm. In infants and young children, the rectum can prolapse, meaning that its mucosal lining protrudes through the anus

Bacillus anthracis

There are more than 50 species of Bacillus in the environment. Most of these rod-shaped microorganisms are commonly found in water and soil. Gram-positive rod found singly or in chains; however, its gram staining changes with age or nutritional stress. It is an aerobic and facultative bacterium that forms spores aerobically. It is nonmotile, unlike other species of the genus Bacillus. The unique capsule protects it from the body's phagocytic cells. Can withstand temperatures between 23 degrees F and 167 degrees F Anthrax is a disease common in livestock around the world. The animals do not spread the disease to one another; instead, they become infected by the spores found on plants they eat. The three forms of human anthrax include cutaneous, inhalation, and gastrointestinal anthrax. Each of these forms of anthrax results from wound contamination, the inhalation, or the ingestion of spores. Anthrax is typically treated with penicillin and a broad array of antibiotics. It is not a contagious disease. To become infected with any form of anthrax, the individual must be exposed to the spores of this Vaccination for Veterinarians because they work with animals

Francisella tularensis

Tularemia is caused by this. This highly infectious, strictly aerobic, nonmotile, small, gram-negative bacillus is a facultatively intracellular parasite. Can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, bites, or minor skin breaks. The bite of arthropods, such as deer flies, ticks, or rabbit lice may be a mechanism of transmission of the disease. The first sign of tularemia is a local inflammation and a small ulcer. About a week after infection, the regional lymph nodes enlarge and fill with pus. Septicemia, pneumonia, and abscesses throughout the body ensue

Inhalation Anthrax

Woolsorter's disease Pulmonary anthrax Acquired when spores are inhaled into the lungs. Within two to five days of inhaling the B. anthracis spores, a mild respiratory infection occurs resembling a cold or flu. Symptoms last about two to three days before a sudden phase of respiratory distress occurs. The ensuing respiratory failure occurs along with cyanosis, shock, disorientation, and coma. The severe phase of this may only take 24 hours before death occurs. 80% fatality rate if left untreated

Which of the following is characteristic of the primary stage of syphilis? a. A chancre appears on the genitals b. A rash is present on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet c. Cardiac failure and paralysis occur d. Rubberlike lesions called gummas appear on the body

a