Bacteriology Lecture Notes Review

A collection of essential vocabulary terms and definitions related to bacteriology for exam preparation.

Gram-positive cocci

A type of bacteria that retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure.

Staphylococcus aureus

A bacterium commonly found on the skin and in the nasal cavity, known for causing food poisoning and skin infections.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

A strain of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to methicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics.

Streptococcus pyogenes

Group A Streptococcus causing diseases such as pharyngitis and skin infections.

Enterococcus faecalis

A type of bacteria normally found in the intestines, but can cause urinary tract infections and endocarditis.

Clostridium perfringens

A bacterium that causes food poisoning and gas gangrene, typically found in the human gastrointestinal tract.

Listeria monocytogenes

A bacterium found in soil and water that can cause listeriosis, particularly in pregnant women.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

The bacterium that causes gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection.

Escherichia coli

A bacterium found in the intestines, commonly associated with urinary tract infections and foodborne illnesses.

Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC)

The lowest concentration of an antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth.

Bacillus anthracis

The bacterium that causes anthrax, often associated with animal products.

Haemophilus influenzae

A bacterium that can cause meningitis and pneumonia, previously common in unvaccinated children.

Treponema pallidum

The bacterium that causes syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

The bacterium that causes tuberculosis, known for its slow growth and ability to evade the immune system.

Anaerobic gram-positive bacilli

A group of bacteria that thrive in environments without oxygen, including Clostridium and Bacteroides species.

Curved gram-negative bacilli

Bacteria such as Vibrio and Campylobacter that have a curved shape and are Gram-negative.

Opportunistic pathogens

Microorganisms that typically do not cause disease in healthy individuals but can cause infections in those with weakened immune systems.