Miscellaneous Bacterial Agents of Disease

A set of flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture notes regarding miscellaneous bacterial agents of disease, their characteristics, transmission, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment.

What are the major types of miscellaneous bacterial pathogens?

Pathogens that do not fit the categories of gram-positive or gram-negative rods or cocci, including spirochetes, curviform bacteria, obligate intracellular parasites, and mycoplasmas.

What are the main genera of spirochetes that are major pathogens?

Treponema, Leptospira, and Borrelia.

What disease is caused by Treponema pallidum?

Syphilis.

How is syphilis transmitted?

Sexual contact and transplacental transmission.

What is the average duration of the incubation stage of syphilis?

3 weeks.

In secondary syphilis, what symptoms are commonly observed?

Skin and mucous membrane lesions, hair loss, fever, and lympbadenopathy.

What treatments are effective for primary and secondary syphilis?

Benzathine penicillin G and doxycycline.

What are the characteristics of congenital syphilis?

Symptoms can include nasal discharge, skin eruptions, bone deformation, and nervous system abnormalities.

What is the key pathogenic factor of Vibrio cholerae?

Cholera toxin that causes electrolyte and water loss through secretory diarrhea.

What is Campylobacter jejuni known to cause?

Bacterial gastroenteritis.

How are Chlamydia trachomatis infections typically diagnosed?

Through PCR testing and clinical evaluation of symptoms.

What are the two main stages in the life cycle of Chlamydiaceae?

Elementary body and reticulate body.

What type of disease is typically caused by Coxiella burnetti?

Q fever.

What is a characteristic of Mycoplasma pneumoniae?

It causes primary atypical pneumonia and lacks a cell wall.

What is the primary method of treatment for infections with Mycoplasmas?

Doxycycline or azithromycin.

What are the two main types of Rickettsioses?

The Typhus group and the spotted fever group.

What can lead to the formation of dental caries?

Acid produced by bacteria in dental plaque dissolves tooth enamel.

What is the main effect of plaque on dental health?

It leads to gingivitis and periodontal disease.

What is the primary symptom of cholera?

Watery diarrhea.

What is the characteristic rash of Rocky Mountain spotted fever?

A distinct spotted rash that may develop a few days after infection.

What critical factor distinguishes Borrelia burgdorferi in Lyme disease?

The development of a bull's-eye rash in 50 to 70% of patients.