Chlamydophila pneumoniae
Chlamydophila pneumoniae
Chlamydophila pneumoniae (pronounced: klah-mid-oh-FEE-luh noo-MOHN-yee-ay) is a species of bacteria that infects humans and is a major cause of pneumonia.
Etymology
The name Chlamydophila comes from the Greek words chlamys (cloak) and philia (love), referring to these bacteria's ability to "cloak" themselves within the cells they infect. The term pneumoniae is derived from the Greek pneumon (lung), indicating the bacteria's propensity to cause lung infections.
Description
Chlamydophila pneumoniae is a small, gram-negative bacterium that can survive in a variety of hosts. It is an obligate intracellular parasite, meaning it can only grow and reproduce inside the cells of its host. The bacterium is known to cause pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis in humans.
Symptoms
Infection with Chlamydophila pneumoniae can lead to a range of symptoms, including a persistent cough, fever, shortness of breath, and chest pain. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious respiratory diseases such as pneumonia.
Treatment
Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as doxycycline, azithromycin, or erythromycin. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Prevention
Prevention strategies include good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
Related Terms
- Chlamydia: A genus of bacteria that includes Chlamydophila pneumoniae.
- Pneumonia: An inflammatory condition of the lung.
- Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or swelling of the sinuses.
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.