Mycobacteria
Mycobacteria
Mycobacteria (/maɪkoʊbækˈtɪəriə/) are a type of bacteria that are classified as Gram-positive, with high guanine and cytosine content.
Etymology
The term "Mycobacteria" is derived from the Greek mykes (μύκης) meaning fungus and bakterion (βακτήριον) meaning small rod. This is due to their fungal-like behavior and rod-like shape.
Characteristics
Mycobacteria are known for their unique cell wall, which is neither truly Gram-positive nor Gram-negative. This characteristic makes them resistant to common antibiotics. They are also acid-fast, meaning they resist decolorization by acids during staining procedures.
Types
There are several types of Mycobacteria, including:
- M. tuberculosis: The causative agent of tuberculosis.
- M. leprae: The causative agent of leprosy.
- M. avium: Associated with lung disease in people with weakened immune systems.
- M. bovis: Causes tuberculosis in cattle and can infect humans through unpasteurized milk.
Diseases
Mycobacteria are responsible for several diseases in humans, including:
- Tuberculosis: A serious, often deadly disease that primarily affects the lungs.
- Leprosy: A chronic disease that affects the skin and nerves.
- Nontuberculous mycobacterial infection: Infections caused by mycobacteria other than M. tuberculosis and M. leprae.
Treatment
Treatment of diseases caused by Mycobacteria often involves a combination of several antibiotics, due to the bacteria's resistance to many common antibiotics. The specific treatment regimen depends on the type of Mycobacteria and the severity of the infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mycobacteria
- Wikipedia's article - Mycobacteria
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