Polymyxin

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Polymyxin

Polymyxin (pronounced: /ˌpɒlɪˈmaɪksɪn/) is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria.

Etymology

The term "Polymyxin" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning "many" and "mykes" meaning "fungus". This is because the antibiotic was originally derived from the bacterium Bacillus polymyxa, which was so named because it produces many spores.

Usage

Polymyxins are used to treat a variety of infections, including those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. They work by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane, leading to cell death.

Related Terms

  • Bacillus polymyxa: The bacterium from which polymyxin is derived.
  • Antibiotic: A type of drug used to treat bacterial infections.
  • Gram-negative bacteria: A type of bacteria that does not retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining method of bacterial identification.
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A common type of bacteria that can cause disease in animals, including humans.
  • Escherichia coli: Often abbreviated as E. coli, these bacteria are found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals.
  • Klebsiella pneumoniae: A type of bacteria that can cause different types of healthcare-associated infections, including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound or surgical site infections, and meningitis.

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