Anthrax: Characteristics & Diagnosis PDF

 Characteristics of Gram-Positive Bacilli Thick Peptidoglycan Capsule Formation Spore Formation Metachromatic Granules Layer Gram-positive bacteria Some species, like Bacillus Certain gram-positive Corynebacterium possess...

 Characteristics of Gram-Positive Bacilli Thick Peptidoglycan Capsule Formation Spore Formation Metachromatic Granules Layer Gram-positive bacteria Some species, like Bacillus Certain gram-positive Corynebacterium possess a thick anthracis, have a capsule, bacteria, such as Bacillus diphtheriae, the peptidoglycan layer, a protective layer that species, are capable of causative agent of which retains the crystal helps them evade the forming endospores, diphtheria, has violet stain during the host's immune system. resistant structures that characteristic Gram staining procedure. can survive harsh metachromatic environmental conditions. granules, which appear as dark-staining bodies within the cells. This genus includes large aerobic, Gram positive , spore- forming bacilli that have Pathogenic : Bacillus anthracis, which causes diseases mainly in animals, but it can affect man and lead to anthrax Saprophytic : Anthracoids , which are widely spread in nature water, soil, and air). Some strains of Anthracoids are pathogenic such as B. cereus cause food poisoning Bacillus cereus is Gram positive bacilli , non-capsulated,  Bacillus species Bacillus anthracis Bacillus cereus Bacillus anthracis is the causative Bacillus cereus is a common foodborne pathogen that can cause food agent of anthrax, a serious poisoning. infectious disease that can affect humans and animals. Anthrax is primarily a disease of It produces toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other herbivores, but it can be gastrointestinal symptoms. transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their products. Bacillus anthracis: the Causative Agent of Anthrax Bacillus anthracis is a facultative anaerobic, Gram-positive, rod- shaped bacterium that forms spores. Anthrax is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The bacterium is found in soil and can infect animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. Humans can contract anthrax through contact with infected animals, their products, or contaminated soil. Bacillus anthracis: the Causative Agent of Anthrax Bacillus anthracis is a facultative anaerobic, Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that forms spores. Anthrax is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Anthrax: Clinical Manifestations Cutaneous Anthrax Inhalation Anthrax Most common form. Begins Rare but deadly. Flu-like as a painless skin lesion that symptoms initially, followed progresses into a black by severe respiratory eschar. distress. Gastrointestinal AnthraxInjection Anthrax Results from ingesting Rare form associated with contaminated meat. Causes injection drug use. severe abdominal pain, Symptoms similar to nausea, and vomiting. cutaneous anthrax, but may spread quickly.  Anthrax: Diagnosis Clinical Presentation Microscopic Examination Anthrax diagnosis is often Gram staining reveals large, based on clinical signs and square-ended, spore- symptoms, depending on the forming bacilli, confirming a type of infection. presumptive diagnosis. Culture Serological Tests Isolation of Bacillus anthracis Detection of specific on blood agar or other antibodies against anthrax suitable media provides toxin can aid diagnosis, definitive identification. especially in cases of Potential Bioterrorism Concerns Anthrax Diphtheria Bacillus anthracis spores are highly stable and can Corynebacterium diphtheriae is a highly contagious survive for extended periods. bacteria. Anthrax can be weaponized and dispersed as an The toxin produced by C. diphtheriae can cause aerosol. severe illness and death.