Chlamydophila
Chlamydophila
Chlamydophila (pronounced klah-muh-doh-fil-uh) is a genus of bacteria that are obligate intracellular parasites. The name "Chlamydophila" comes from the Greek words "chlamys" (cloak) and "philia" (love), referring to these bacteria's ability to "cloak" themselves within host cells.
Etymology
The term "Chlamydophila" is derived from the Greek words "chlamys" (meaning cloak) and "philia" (meaning love). This refers to the bacteria's ability to "cloak" themselves within host cells, effectively hiding from the host's immune system.
Classification
Chlamydophila is a genus within the Chlamydiaceae family. This family also includes the Chlamydia genus. Both genera are characterized by their unique life cycle, which involves the formation of an infectious elementary body and a non-infectious reticulate body.
Species
There are several species of Chlamydophila, including:
- Chlamydophila pneumoniae: This species is a common cause of pneumonia in humans.
- Chlamydophila psittaci: This species is known to cause psittacosis, a disease that can be transmitted from birds to humans.
- Chlamydophila felis: This species primarily infects cats, causing feline chlamydiosis.
Related Terms
- Chlamydia: A genus of bacteria that is closely related to Chlamydophila.
- Chlamydiaceae: The family of bacteria that includes the Chlamydophila and Chlamydia genera.
- Psittacosis: A disease caused by Chlamydophila psittaci that can be transmitted from birds to humans.
- Pneumonia: A condition that can be caused by Chlamydophila pneumoniae.
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