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Identify the preferred swab materials for specimen collection to avoid inhibition of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Dacron or rayon swabs.
How far should a swab be inserted into the anal canal for rectal culture?
4 to 5 cm.
What are two common symptoms of Epididymitis?
Dysuria and lower abdominal pain.
What percentage of patients with certain infections may be asymptomatic?
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List two potential complications of untreated Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
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What distinguishes Neisseria weaveri from other Neisseria species?
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Why are confirmed cases of gonorrhea required to be reported to state health laboratories?
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What role do asymptomatic carriers play in the epidemiology of gonorrhea?
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What environmental conditions affect the growth of fastidious organisms like Neisseria?
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Identify the demographic most affected by gonorrhea in the U.S.
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What are the general characteristics that define most Neisseria species?
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Identify one major virulence factor of Neisseria meningitidis and explain its significance.
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What is the primary natural habitat of pathogenic Neisseria species?
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Name the primary human pathogen responsible for gonorrhea and specify its natural host.
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List two sites where Neisseria gonorrhoeae typically infects the human body.
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What is the incubation period for gonococcal arthritis?
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What are the primary sites of acute pyogenic infection in gonorrhea?
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What is a common complication of gonorrhea in men?
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What percentage of women with genital gonorrhea infections may develop anorectal infections?
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What is ophthalmia neonatorum, and how can it be prevented?
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How often are gonococcal infections asymptomatic in men?
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Name two possible symptoms of an anal canal infection resulting from gonorrhea.
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What risk is associated with untreated gonococcal infections in newborns?
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Study Notes
Neisseria Overview
- Neisseria are gram-negative diplococci, aerobic, non-motile, non-spore forming bacteria.
- Most species are cytochrome oxidase positive and catalase negative, except certain subtypes.
- Neisseria thrive in mucous membranes of respiratory and urogenital tracts, with some species being capnophilic.
- Require iron for growth and are sensitive to unfavorable environmental conditions.
Pathogenic Neisseria Species
- Primary human pathogens: Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis.
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the causative agent of gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection.
- Neisseria meningitidis is known for causing meningitis; it has several virulence factors including a capsule, pili, and immunoglobulin A protease.
Virulence Factors
- Neisseria species possess receptors for human transferrin and lipooligosaccharide (LOS) or endotoxin.
- IgA protease cleaves IgA at mucosal surfaces aiding in evasion of the immune response.
Clinical Infections
- Gonorrhea: Incubation period of approximately 2 to 7 days; can cause acute pyogenic infections in the urogenital tract, pharynx, and conjunctiva.
- Commonly presented as acute urethritis and associated with symptoms such as dysuria and cervical discharge.
Epidemiology
- Most transmission occurs through sexual contact; asymptomatic carriers are a primary reservoir.
- Highest infection rates are observed in individuals aged 20-24.
- Gonorrhea is the second most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., following Chlamydia trachomatis.
Clinical Manifestations
- In Men: Acute urethritis occurs in about 90% of infected men; 10% may remain asymptomatic. Complications can include prostatitis and epididymitis.
- In Women: 50% of infections are asymptomatic. Symptoms may manifest as dysuria, cervical discharge, and lower abdominal pain. Complications include pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancy.
Disease in Newborns
- Ophthalmia neonatorum, a gonococcal eye infection, can occur during vaginal delivery if the mother is infected; it can lead to blindness if untreated.
- Prophylactic eye drops (erythromycin) are critical for all infants at birth.
Specimen Collection and Transport
- For rectal cultures, swabs should be inserted 4 to 5 cm into the anal canal.
- Preferred swab materials include Dacron or rayon; avoid calcium alginate and cotton swabs due to inhibitory effects on N. gonorrhoeae.
- Immediate notification of pending Neisseria samples to the laboratory is recommended for timely diagnostics.
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Description
This quiz covers important topics related to clinical infections in women, including conditions like epididymitis and urethral stricture. It also discusses specimen collection techniques such as rectal cultures and common sites of infection. Gain a deeper understanding of the symptoms and diagnostic methods associated with these infections.
