Shigella, Klebsiella, and Enterobacter Overview

These flashcards summarize key information about the genera Shigella, Klebsiella, and Enterobacter, their characteristics, virulence factors, and associated diseases.

Shigella

A genus of bacteria that are G- and primarily pathogenic to humans and primates, known to cause dysentery.

S. dysenteriae

A species of Shigella that produces shiga toxin and can lead to severe complications such as vascular collapse or renal damage.

Klebsiella pneumoniae

A species of Klebsiella, notable for its role in opportunistic infections and known for creating hypervirulent strains.

Enterobacter cloacae

A species of Enterobacter implicated in opportunistic infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.

Virulence factors

Characteristics that enhance the bacteria's ability to cause disease, such as toxins, capsules, and resistance to immune responses.

Biochemical properties

Characteristics of bacteria related to metabolism, such as lactose fermentation, urease production, and nitrate reduction.

Nosocomial infections

Infections acquired in a hospital setting, often associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Shiga toxin

A potent neurotoxin and cytotoxin produced by S. dysenteriae, which inhibits protein synthesis.

Antibiotic resistance

The reduction in effectiveness of antibiotics on bacteria, often due to genetic mutations or acquisition of resistance genes.