Burkholderia pseudomallei
Burkholderia pseudomallei
Burkholderia pseudomallei (pronounced: burk-hol-der-ia soo-doh-mal-ee-eye) is a gram-negative bacterium that is the causative agent of melioidosis. It is a soil-dwelling bacterium endemic in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, particularly in Thailand and northern Australia.
Etymology
The name Burkholderia pseudomallei is derived from the name of the American bacteriologist Walter H. Burkholder, who isolated the organism in 1943, and the Greek word "pseudomallei" which means "false glanders". Glanders is a similar disease caused by a related bacterium, Burkholderia mallei.
Characteristics
Burkholderia pseudomallei is a motile bacterium, possessing flagella which allow it to move in liquid environments. It is capable of surviving in a diverse range of environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and pH levels. It is also resistant to many common antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat.
Infection and Symptoms
Infection with Burkholderia pseudomallei can lead to melioidosis, a disease which can present in a variety of forms, from acute sepsis to chronic abscesses. Symptoms can include fever, cough, chest pain, and weight loss. The bacterium can be spread through direct contact with contaminated soil or water, inhalation of aerosolized bacteria, or ingestion of contaminated water.
Treatment
Treatment of melioidosis typically involves an initial intensive phase of intravenous antibiotic therapy, followed by a prolonged course of oral antibiotics. Due to the bacterium's resistance to many antibiotics, treatment can be challenging and requires careful selection of appropriate drugs.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Burkholderia pseudomallei
- Wikipedia's article - Burkholderia pseudomallei
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