Microbiology Notes on Gram-Positive Organisms

These flashcards provide definitions and explanations for key microbiological terms and concepts related to gram-positive organisms, aiding in exam preparation.

Staphylococcus aureus

Common pathogen causing infections such as furuncles, carbuncles, and toxic shock syndrome.

Furuncles

Also known as boils, they are painful, pus-filled bumps that form under the skin.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

A severe medical condition often linked to bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

A strain of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to methicillin and requires alternative antibiotic treatment.

Catalase Test

A test that detects the presence of the enzyme catalase in bacteria, indicating oxygen metabolism.

Coagulase Test

A test to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from other staphylococci based on its ability to clot blood plasma.

Streptococcus pyogenes

A type of bacteria responsible for infections such as strep throat and rheumatic fever.

Bacitracin Sensitivity Test

A laboratory test used to diagnose Group A Streptococcus (S. pyogenes) infections.

Lancefield Grouping

A method of classifying streptococci based on carbohydrate composition of antigens found on the bacteria's cell wall.

Corynebacterium diphtheriae

Bacterium that causes diphtheria, characterized by pleomorphic rods and clubbed ends.

Elek Test

A test used to determine toxin production by Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

Listeria monocytogenes

A bacterium that causes listeriosis, often associated with contaminated food.

Tumbling Motility

A characteristic motility pattern observed in Listeria monocytogenes under a microscope.

Bacillus anthracis

The bacterium that causes anthrax, recognized by its long chains and non-motility.

Erysipelothrix

A genus of bacteria known for causing erysipeloid infections, often from contact with animals.

Enterococcus

A group of bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections and are often resistant to multiple antibiotics.

Bile Esculin Test

A test to identify Enterococcus based on its ability to hydrolyze esculin in the presence of bile.