Chryseobacterium gleum is a versatile bacterium with a broad environmental distribution, encompassing water, soil, plants, and various food products. Its resilience extends to hospital settings, chlorinated water, and wet surfaces, establishing these environments as potential reservoirs of infection. The recovery of Chryseobacterium spp. from diverse sources, including plant roots, soils, flowers, and water bodies, highlights its adaptability. Certain strains associated with plants exhibit the intriguing ability to inhibit plant pathogenic fungi.
Chryseobacterium gleum’s presence spans globally, with reports of recovery from freshwater sources, bioreactor sludge, lactic acid beverages, beer bottling plants, marine sediment, and permafrost. Notably, the reported instances of C. indologenes infections are on the rise, with a significant majority documented in Taiwan. While Asia, particularly Taiwan, accounts for the bulk of reported cases, sporadic instances have been reported in Australia, India, Europe, and the USA.
The incidence of Chryseobacterium infections is increasing, with most of the reported cases originating from Taiwan. Approximately 10% of cases have been reported outside of Asia, including instances in Australia, India, Europe, and the USA. Notably, its emergence as a causative agent of nosocomial infections emphasizes its opportunistic nature. The majority of infections are observed in patients with conditions conducive to opportunistic pathogens, including indwelling devices, immunosuppression, prolonged hospitalization, or extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
While Chryseobacterium gleum infections were historically less frequent, the bacterium’s adaptability and opportunistic behavior underscore the need for vigilance in healthcare settings. The first isolation from a human in London in 1984 marked the beginning of awareness, and subsequent reports have expanded our understanding of the epidemiology of this bacterium.
Kingdom: Bacteria
Phylum: Bacteroidota
Class: Flavobacteriia
Order: Flavobacteriales
Family: Weeksellaceae
Genus: Chryseobacterium
Species: C. gleum
Chryseobacterium gleum is a gram-negative bacterium exhibiting a rod-shaped morphology with rounded ends and parallel sides. The size of these rods can vary, ranging from 1.0 to 3.0 µm in length and 0.5 µm in diameter.
When cultured on agar media, C. gleum forms distinctive yellow-orange colonies. This vibrant pigmentation is attributed to the production of a flexirubin-type pigment. The colonies exhibit regular circular morphology with well-defined margins and measure approximately 1 to 2 mm in diameter.
While the fine structure details remain limited, the chemical composition of C. gleum includes menaquinone-6 (MK-6) as the predominant isoprenoid quinone. Additionally, the primary fatty acids identified in the bacterium are iso-C15:0, iso-C17:1 9c, and ω7c.
Chryseobacterium gleum, a bacterium with distinctive features, manifests several noteworthy traits. The bacterium produces flexirubin-type pigments, presenting as yellow-orange compounds. These pigments, acting as potential antigens, can elicit immune responses in the host. Additionally, C. gleum harbors a type IX secretion system, a complex facilitating the secretion of enzymes and toxins, including chitinase, gelatinase, collagenase, & metalloprotease. These proteins play essential roles in tissue degradation, evasion of host defenses, and the promotion of biofilm formation.
Intriguingly, Chryseobacterium gleum exhibits inherent resistance to various antibiotics, including tetracyclines, erythromycin, linezolid, and polymyxins. The type strain of C. gleum, initially designated as Flavobacterium gleum, is denoted as ATCC 35910 or CCUG 14555, CIP 103039, DSM 16776, F93. This strain was reclassified to the genus Chryseobacterium in 1994, highlighting the evolving understanding of bacterial taxonomy. Beyond the type strain, diverse isolates of C. gleum have been recovered from disparate sources, including freshwater fish, soil, and raw milk, underscoring its ecological versatility.
Chryseobacterium gleum is widely distributed in the environment, particularly in soil, water, plants, and food products, but it is generally an uncommon human pathogen. However, when infections occur, they tend to be serious, especially among immunocompromised individuals. Most reported cases of C. gleum infections are nosocomial, often associated with factors such as immunosuppression or the presence of indwelling devices.
The bacterium’s pathogenic potential is evident in its association with various infections across multiple countries. Chryseobacterium gleum has been implicated in urinary tract infections, pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, bacteremia, and pyonephrosis.
Beyond its impact on human health, Chryseobacterium spp. demonstrate diverse capabilities, including pathogenicity towards soft ticks and associations with diseases in turtles, frogs, and fish. Notably, certain Chryseobacterium species exhibit remarkable matrix-digesting properties, capable of degrading challenging collagenous matrices like exoskeletons or feathers. These abilities are attributed to specific enzymes, including collagenase-like metalloproteases, and chitinases, which are linked to the bacterium’s gliding motility facilitated via type IX secretion systems.
Chryseobacterium gleum has been reported to produce α- or β-hemolysis, indicating its potential to lyse red blood cells on blood agar media. This suggests a capacity to damage host erythrocytes, potentially leading to conditions such as anemia or tissue damage. Additionally, the detection of BoNT-like (Botulinum neurotoxin-like) toxins in the genome of C. piperi str. CTM adds another layer to its pathogenicity. While these toxins present a highly divergent group, one of the predicted C. piperi BoNT-like toxins induces necrotic cell death in human kidney cells, showcasing potential cytotoxic effects.
The human host deploys a range of intricate mechanisms to combat C. gleum, yet their effectiveness may vary in certain instances. Nitric oxide, a multifunctional molecule produced by various cell types, including macrophages, endothelial cells, and neurons, serves roles in vasodilation, neurotransmission, and antimicrobial activity. Nitric oxide’s antimicrobial function involves damaging the DNA, proteins, and membranes of bacteria, including Chryseobacterium. However, the precise role of nitric oxide in the host defense against C. gleum remains unclear, suggesting potential mechanisms employed by the bacterium to resist or evade nitric oxide-mediated killing.
Cytokines, pivotal signaling molecules, contribute to the host defense by inducing fever and enhancing neutrophil production in the bone marrow. While these responses aim to combat infections, cytokines also possess inflammatory properties that may lead to tissue damage. Notably, Chryseobacterium gleum’s resistance to many antibiotics raises questions about the efficacy of cytokines against this bacterium.
Bacteremia and Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI): C. gleum infections often manifest as bacteremia, indicating the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. This condition frequently leads to sepsis, a critical and life-threatening state. Notably, C. gleum bacteremia is commonly associated with CLABSI, emphasizing the severity of infections originating from central lines or indwelling devices.
Pneumonia and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP): C. gleum is implicated in pneumonia, an inflammatory lung infection characterized by breathing difficulties. In healthcare settings, C. gleum pneumonia is often linked to VAP, a specific type of pneumonia prevalent in mechanically ventilated patients.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): C. gleum infections can extend to the urinary system, causing UTIs. Clinical manifestations include painful urination, urgency, frequent urination, and the presence of pus or blood in the urine. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and targeted intervention.
Pyonephrosis and Severe UTI: In severe cases, C. gleum UTIs may progress to pyonephrosis, marked by pus accumulation in the kidney. This condition poses a significant threat to renal health, leading to symptoms such as flank pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Timely identification and management are imperative to prevent kidney damage or failure.
Meningitis, Endocarditis, and Empyema: While rare, C. gleum can cause severe complications like meningitis, primarily observed in neonates or immunocompromised patients. Additionally, endocarditis, affecting the heart’s inner lining or valves, and empyema, an infection in the pleural space, are rare but potentially severe manifestations associated with C. gleum infections. These complications demand high clinical vigilance due to their potential impact on vital organs and systems.
Biochemical Tests: Biochemical tests play a crucial role in detecting specific enzymes or metabolic products in bacteria. For identifying Chryseobacterium gleum, several biochemical tests are employed, including catalase, oxidase, urease, indole, and nitrate reduction tests. The outcomes of these tests contribute to a comprehensive profile that aids in the accurate identification of the bacterium.
Mass Spectrometry: Mass spectrometry, particularly Vitek MS matrix-assisted laser ionization/desorption time-of-flight, is a sophisticated technique that measures the charge-to-mass ratio of molecules in a sample. This method leverages a laser to ionize the bacteria and a detector to measure the time of flight of the ions. Vitek MS MALDI-TOF can generate unique protein profiles, allowing for the precise identification of C. gleum based on its distinct molecular characteristics.
16S Ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid (rRNA) Sequencing: 16S rRNA sequencing involves the analysis of the genetic material of bacteria, specifically the 16S subunit of the ribosome, crucial for protein synthesis. This method enables the identification of bacteria by assessing their phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history. In the case of C. gleum, 16S rRNA sequencing is a powerful tool for confirmation. By comparing its genetic sequence with those of other bacteria in a comprehensive database, this sequencing method ensures accurate and specific identification.
C. gleum is widely distributed in the environment, necessitating stringent measures to disinfect potential reservoirs of infection. Focusing on hospital settings, chlorinated water, and wet surfaces is crucial.
Utilizing effective disinfectants like chlorine, iodine, or quaternary ammonium compounds becomes imperative to mitigate the risk of environmental contamination.
Fundamental hygiene practices play a pivotal role in preventing and controlling Chryseobacterium gleum infections. This includes rigorous handwashing, thorough disinfection of surfaces and equipment in healthcare settings, and the isolation of infected patients when necessary.
Unnecessary or indiscriminate use of these antibiotics may select resistant strains of C. gleum, posing challenges in treatment. Implementing judicious antibiotic practices involves considering the specific nature of the infection, employing targeted therapies, and avoiding the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics, thereby preserving their effectiveness.
Chryseobacterium gleum Isolation from Respiratory Culture Following Community-Acquired Pneumonia – PMC (nih.gov)
Chryseobacterium gleum bacteraemia: first reported cases from Qatar – ScienceDirect
Chryseobacterium gleum is a versatile bacterium with a broad environmental distribution, encompassing water, soil, plants, and various food products. Its resilience extends to hospital settings, chlorinated water, and wet surfaces, establishing these environments as potential reservoirs of infection. The recovery of Chryseobacterium spp. from diverse sources, including plant roots, soils, flowers, and water bodies, highlights its adaptability. Certain strains associated with plants exhibit the intriguing ability to inhibit plant pathogenic fungi.
Chryseobacterium gleum’s presence spans globally, with reports of recovery from freshwater sources, bioreactor sludge, lactic acid beverages, beer bottling plants, marine sediment, and permafrost. Notably, the reported instances of C. indologenes infections are on the rise, with a significant majority documented in Taiwan. While Asia, particularly Taiwan, accounts for the bulk of reported cases, sporadic instances have been reported in Australia, India, Europe, and the USA.
The incidence of Chryseobacterium infections is increasing, with most of the reported cases originating from Taiwan. Approximately 10% of cases have been reported outside of Asia, including instances in Australia, India, Europe, and the USA. Notably, its emergence as a causative agent of nosocomial infections emphasizes its opportunistic nature. The majority of infections are observed in patients with conditions conducive to opportunistic pathogens, including indwelling devices, immunosuppression, prolonged hospitalization, or extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
While Chryseobacterium gleum infections were historically less frequent, the bacterium’s adaptability and opportunistic behavior underscore the need for vigilance in healthcare settings. The first isolation from a human in London in 1984 marked the beginning of awareness, and subsequent reports have expanded our understanding of the epidemiology of this bacterium.
Kingdom: Bacteria
Phylum: Bacteroidota
Class: Flavobacteriia
Order: Flavobacteriales
Family: Weeksellaceae
Genus: Chryseobacterium
Species: C. gleum
Chryseobacterium gleum is a gram-negative bacterium exhibiting a rod-shaped morphology with rounded ends and parallel sides. The size of these rods can vary, ranging from 1.0 to 3.0 µm in length and 0.5 µm in diameter.
When cultured on agar media, C. gleum forms distinctive yellow-orange colonies. This vibrant pigmentation is attributed to the production of a flexirubin-type pigment. The colonies exhibit regular circular morphology with well-defined margins and measure approximately 1 to 2 mm in diameter.
While the fine structure details remain limited, the chemical composition of C. gleum includes menaquinone-6 (MK-6) as the predominant isoprenoid quinone. Additionally, the primary fatty acids identified in the bacterium are iso-C15:0, iso-C17:1 9c, and ω7c.
Chryseobacterium gleum, a bacterium with distinctive features, manifests several noteworthy traits. The bacterium produces flexirubin-type pigments, presenting as yellow-orange compounds. These pigments, acting as potential antigens, can elicit immune responses in the host. Additionally, C. gleum harbors a type IX secretion system, a complex facilitating the secretion of enzymes and toxins, including chitinase, gelatinase, collagenase, & metalloprotease. These proteins play essential roles in tissue degradation, evasion of host defenses, and the promotion of biofilm formation.
Intriguingly, Chryseobacterium gleum exhibits inherent resistance to various antibiotics, including tetracyclines, erythromycin, linezolid, and polymyxins. The type strain of C. gleum, initially designated as Flavobacterium gleum, is denoted as ATCC 35910 or CCUG 14555, CIP 103039, DSM 16776, F93. This strain was reclassified to the genus Chryseobacterium in 1994, highlighting the evolving understanding of bacterial taxonomy. Beyond the type strain, diverse isolates of C. gleum have been recovered from disparate sources, including freshwater fish, soil, and raw milk, underscoring its ecological versatility.
Chryseobacterium gleum is widely distributed in the environment, particularly in soil, water, plants, and food products, but it is generally an uncommon human pathogen. However, when infections occur, they tend to be serious, especially among immunocompromised individuals. Most reported cases of C. gleum infections are nosocomial, often associated with factors such as immunosuppression or the presence of indwelling devices.
The bacterium’s pathogenic potential is evident in its association with various infections across multiple countries. Chryseobacterium gleum has been implicated in urinary tract infections, pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, bacteremia, and pyonephrosis.
Beyond its impact on human health, Chryseobacterium spp. demonstrate diverse capabilities, including pathogenicity towards soft ticks and associations with diseases in turtles, frogs, and fish. Notably, certain Chryseobacterium species exhibit remarkable matrix-digesting properties, capable of degrading challenging collagenous matrices like exoskeletons or feathers. These abilities are attributed to specific enzymes, including collagenase-like metalloproteases, and chitinases, which are linked to the bacterium’s gliding motility facilitated via type IX secretion systems.
Chryseobacterium gleum has been reported to produce α- or β-hemolysis, indicating its potential to lyse red blood cells on blood agar media. This suggests a capacity to damage host erythrocytes, potentially leading to conditions such as anemia or tissue damage. Additionally, the detection of BoNT-like (Botulinum neurotoxin-like) toxins in the genome of C. piperi str. CTM adds another layer to its pathogenicity. While these toxins present a highly divergent group, one of the predicted C. piperi BoNT-like toxins induces necrotic cell death in human kidney cells, showcasing potential cytotoxic effects.
The human host deploys a range of intricate mechanisms to combat C. gleum, yet their effectiveness may vary in certain instances. Nitric oxide, a multifunctional molecule produced by various cell types, including macrophages, endothelial cells, and neurons, serves roles in vasodilation, neurotransmission, and antimicrobial activity. Nitric oxide’s antimicrobial function involves damaging the DNA, proteins, and membranes of bacteria, including Chryseobacterium. However, the precise role of nitric oxide in the host defense against C. gleum remains unclear, suggesting potential mechanisms employed by the bacterium to resist or evade nitric oxide-mediated killing.
Cytokines, pivotal signaling molecules, contribute to the host defense by inducing fever and enhancing neutrophil production in the bone marrow. While these responses aim to combat infections, cytokines also possess inflammatory properties that may lead to tissue damage. Notably, Chryseobacterium gleum’s resistance to many antibiotics raises questions about the efficacy of cytokines against this bacterium.
Bacteremia and Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI): C. gleum infections often manifest as bacteremia, indicating the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. This condition frequently leads to sepsis, a critical and life-threatening state. Notably, C. gleum bacteremia is commonly associated with CLABSI, emphasizing the severity of infections originating from central lines or indwelling devices.
Pneumonia and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP): C. gleum is implicated in pneumonia, an inflammatory lung infection characterized by breathing difficulties. In healthcare settings, C. gleum pneumonia is often linked to VAP, a specific type of pneumonia prevalent in mechanically ventilated patients.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): C. gleum infections can extend to the urinary system, causing UTIs. Clinical manifestations include painful urination, urgency, frequent urination, and the presence of pus or blood in the urine. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and targeted intervention.
Pyonephrosis and Severe UTI: In severe cases, C. gleum UTIs may progress to pyonephrosis, marked by pus accumulation in the kidney. This condition poses a significant threat to renal health, leading to symptoms such as flank pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Timely identification and management are imperative to prevent kidney damage or failure.
Meningitis, Endocarditis, and Empyema: While rare, C. gleum can cause severe complications like meningitis, primarily observed in neonates or immunocompromised patients. Additionally, endocarditis, affecting the heart’s inner lining or valves, and empyema, an infection in the pleural space, are rare but potentially severe manifestations associated with C. gleum infections. These complications demand high clinical vigilance due to their potential impact on vital organs and systems.
Biochemical Tests: Biochemical tests play a crucial role in detecting specific enzymes or metabolic products in bacteria. For identifying Chryseobacterium gleum, several biochemical tests are employed, including catalase, oxidase, urease, indole, and nitrate reduction tests. The outcomes of these tests contribute to a comprehensive profile that aids in the accurate identification of the bacterium.
Mass Spectrometry: Mass spectrometry, particularly Vitek MS matrix-assisted laser ionization/desorption time-of-flight, is a sophisticated technique that measures the charge-to-mass ratio of molecules in a sample. This method leverages a laser to ionize the bacteria and a detector to measure the time of flight of the ions. Vitek MS MALDI-TOF can generate unique protein profiles, allowing for the precise identification of C. gleum based on its distinct molecular characteristics.
16S Ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid (rRNA) Sequencing: 16S rRNA sequencing involves the analysis of the genetic material of bacteria, specifically the 16S subunit of the ribosome, crucial for protein synthesis. This method enables the identification of bacteria by assessing their phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history. In the case of C. gleum, 16S rRNA sequencing is a powerful tool for confirmation. By comparing its genetic sequence with those of other bacteria in a comprehensive database, this sequencing method ensures accurate and specific identification.
C. gleum is widely distributed in the environment, necessitating stringent measures to disinfect potential reservoirs of infection. Focusing on hospital settings, chlorinated water, and wet surfaces is crucial.
Utilizing effective disinfectants like chlorine, iodine, or quaternary ammonium compounds becomes imperative to mitigate the risk of environmental contamination.
Fundamental hygiene practices play a pivotal role in preventing and controlling Chryseobacterium gleum infections. This includes rigorous handwashing, thorough disinfection of surfaces and equipment in healthcare settings, and the isolation of infected patients when necessary.
Unnecessary or indiscriminate use of these antibiotics may select resistant strains of C. gleum, posing challenges in treatment. Implementing judicious antibiotic practices involves considering the specific nature of the infection, employing targeted therapies, and avoiding the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics, thereby preserving their effectiveness.
Chryseobacterium gleum Isolation from Respiratory Culture Following Community-Acquired Pneumonia – PMC (nih.gov)
Chryseobacterium gleum bacteraemia: first reported cases from Qatar – ScienceDirect
Chryseobacterium gleum is a versatile bacterium with a broad environmental distribution, encompassing water, soil, plants, and various food products. Its resilience extends to hospital settings, chlorinated water, and wet surfaces, establishing these environments as potential reservoirs of infection. The recovery of Chryseobacterium spp. from diverse sources, including plant roots, soils, flowers, and water bodies, highlights its adaptability. Certain strains associated with plants exhibit the intriguing ability to inhibit plant pathogenic fungi.
Chryseobacterium gleum’s presence spans globally, with reports of recovery from freshwater sources, bioreactor sludge, lactic acid beverages, beer bottling plants, marine sediment, and permafrost. Notably, the reported instances of C. indologenes infections are on the rise, with a significant majority documented in Taiwan. While Asia, particularly Taiwan, accounts for the bulk of reported cases, sporadic instances have been reported in Australia, India, Europe, and the USA.
The incidence of Chryseobacterium infections is increasing, with most of the reported cases originating from Taiwan. Approximately 10% of cases have been reported outside of Asia, including instances in Australia, India, Europe, and the USA. Notably, its emergence as a causative agent of nosocomial infections emphasizes its opportunistic nature. The majority of infections are observed in patients with conditions conducive to opportunistic pathogens, including indwelling devices, immunosuppression, prolonged hospitalization, or extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
While Chryseobacterium gleum infections were historically less frequent, the bacterium’s adaptability and opportunistic behavior underscore the need for vigilance in healthcare settings. The first isolation from a human in London in 1984 marked the beginning of awareness, and subsequent reports have expanded our understanding of the epidemiology of this bacterium.
Kingdom: Bacteria
Phylum: Bacteroidota
Class: Flavobacteriia
Order: Flavobacteriales
Family: Weeksellaceae
Genus: Chryseobacterium
Species: C. gleum
Chryseobacterium gleum is a gram-negative bacterium exhibiting a rod-shaped morphology with rounded ends and parallel sides. The size of these rods can vary, ranging from 1.0 to 3.0 µm in length and 0.5 µm in diameter.
When cultured on agar media, C. gleum forms distinctive yellow-orange colonies. This vibrant pigmentation is attributed to the production of a flexirubin-type pigment. The colonies exhibit regular circular morphology with well-defined margins and measure approximately 1 to 2 mm in diameter.
While the fine structure details remain limited, the chemical composition of C. gleum includes menaquinone-6 (MK-6) as the predominant isoprenoid quinone. Additionally, the primary fatty acids identified in the bacterium are iso-C15:0, iso-C17:1 9c, and ω7c.
Chryseobacterium gleum, a bacterium with distinctive features, manifests several noteworthy traits. The bacterium produces flexirubin-type pigments, presenting as yellow-orange compounds. These pigments, acting as potential antigens, can elicit immune responses in the host. Additionally, C. gleum harbors a type IX secretion system, a complex facilitating the secretion of enzymes and toxins, including chitinase, gelatinase, collagenase, & metalloprotease. These proteins play essential roles in tissue degradation, evasion of host defenses, and the promotion of biofilm formation.
Intriguingly, Chryseobacterium gleum exhibits inherent resistance to various antibiotics, including tetracyclines, erythromycin, linezolid, and polymyxins. The type strain of C. gleum, initially designated as Flavobacterium gleum, is denoted as ATCC 35910 or CCUG 14555, CIP 103039, DSM 16776, F93. This strain was reclassified to the genus Chryseobacterium in 1994, highlighting the evolving understanding of bacterial taxonomy. Beyond the type strain, diverse isolates of C. gleum have been recovered from disparate sources, including freshwater fish, soil, and raw milk, underscoring its ecological versatility.
Chryseobacterium gleum is widely distributed in the environment, particularly in soil, water, plants, and food products, but it is generally an uncommon human pathogen. However, when infections occur, they tend to be serious, especially among immunocompromised individuals. Most reported cases of C. gleum infections are nosocomial, often associated with factors such as immunosuppression or the presence of indwelling devices.
The bacterium’s pathogenic potential is evident in its association with various infections across multiple countries. Chryseobacterium gleum has been implicated in urinary tract infections, pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, bacteremia, and pyonephrosis.
Beyond its impact on human health, Chryseobacterium spp. demonstrate diverse capabilities, including pathogenicity towards soft ticks and associations with diseases in turtles, frogs, and fish. Notably, certain Chryseobacterium species exhibit remarkable matrix-digesting properties, capable of degrading challenging collagenous matrices like exoskeletons or feathers. These abilities are attributed to specific enzymes, including collagenase-like metalloproteases, and chitinases, which are linked to the bacterium’s gliding motility facilitated via type IX secretion systems.
Chryseobacterium gleum has been reported to produce α- or β-hemolysis, indicating its potential to lyse red blood cells on blood agar media. This suggests a capacity to damage host erythrocytes, potentially leading to conditions such as anemia or tissue damage. Additionally, the detection of BoNT-like (Botulinum neurotoxin-like) toxins in the genome of C. piperi str. CTM adds another layer to its pathogenicity. While these toxins present a highly divergent group, one of the predicted C. piperi BoNT-like toxins induces necrotic cell death in human kidney cells, showcasing potential cytotoxic effects.
The human host deploys a range of intricate mechanisms to combat C. gleum, yet their effectiveness may vary in certain instances. Nitric oxide, a multifunctional molecule produced by various cell types, including macrophages, endothelial cells, and neurons, serves roles in vasodilation, neurotransmission, and antimicrobial activity. Nitric oxide’s antimicrobial function involves damaging the DNA, proteins, and membranes of bacteria, including Chryseobacterium. However, the precise role of nitric oxide in the host defense against C. gleum remains unclear, suggesting potential mechanisms employed by the bacterium to resist or evade nitric oxide-mediated killing.
Cytokines, pivotal signaling molecules, contribute to the host defense by inducing fever and enhancing neutrophil production in the bone marrow. While these responses aim to combat infections, cytokines also possess inflammatory properties that may lead to tissue damage. Notably, Chryseobacterium gleum’s resistance to many antibiotics raises questions about the efficacy of cytokines against this bacterium.
Bacteremia and Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI): C. gleum infections often manifest as bacteremia, indicating the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. This condition frequently leads to sepsis, a critical and life-threatening state. Notably, C. gleum bacteremia is commonly associated with CLABSI, emphasizing the severity of infections originating from central lines or indwelling devices.
Pneumonia and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP): C. gleum is implicated in pneumonia, an inflammatory lung infection characterized by breathing difficulties. In healthcare settings, C. gleum pneumonia is often linked to VAP, a specific type of pneumonia prevalent in mechanically ventilated patients.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): C. gleum infections can extend to the urinary system, causing UTIs. Clinical manifestations include painful urination, urgency, frequent urination, and the presence of pus or blood in the urine. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and targeted intervention.
Pyonephrosis and Severe UTI: In severe cases, C. gleum UTIs may progress to pyonephrosis, marked by pus accumulation in the kidney. This condition poses a significant threat to renal health, leading to symptoms such as flank pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Timely identification and management are imperative to prevent kidney damage or failure.
Meningitis, Endocarditis, and Empyema: While rare, C. gleum can cause severe complications like meningitis, primarily observed in neonates or immunocompromised patients. Additionally, endocarditis, affecting the heart’s inner lining or valves, and empyema, an infection in the pleural space, are rare but potentially severe manifestations associated with C. gleum infections. These complications demand high clinical vigilance due to their potential impact on vital organs and systems.
Biochemical Tests: Biochemical tests play a crucial role in detecting specific enzymes or metabolic products in bacteria. For identifying Chryseobacterium gleum, several biochemical tests are employed, including catalase, oxidase, urease, indole, and nitrate reduction tests. The outcomes of these tests contribute to a comprehensive profile that aids in the accurate identification of the bacterium.
Mass Spectrometry: Mass spectrometry, particularly Vitek MS matrix-assisted laser ionization/desorption time-of-flight, is a sophisticated technique that measures the charge-to-mass ratio of molecules in a sample. This method leverages a laser to ionize the bacteria and a detector to measure the time of flight of the ions. Vitek MS MALDI-TOF can generate unique protein profiles, allowing for the precise identification of C. gleum based on its distinct molecular characteristics.
16S Ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid (rRNA) Sequencing: 16S rRNA sequencing involves the analysis of the genetic material of bacteria, specifically the 16S subunit of the ribosome, crucial for protein synthesis. This method enables the identification of bacteria by assessing their phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history. In the case of C. gleum, 16S rRNA sequencing is a powerful tool for confirmation. By comparing its genetic sequence with those of other bacteria in a comprehensive database, this sequencing method ensures accurate and specific identification.
C. gleum is widely distributed in the environment, necessitating stringent measures to disinfect potential reservoirs of infection. Focusing on hospital settings, chlorinated water, and wet surfaces is crucial.
Utilizing effective disinfectants like chlorine, iodine, or quaternary ammonium compounds becomes imperative to mitigate the risk of environmental contamination.
Fundamental hygiene practices play a pivotal role in preventing and controlling Chryseobacterium gleum infections. This includes rigorous handwashing, thorough disinfection of surfaces and equipment in healthcare settings, and the isolation of infected patients when necessary.
Unnecessary or indiscriminate use of these antibiotics may select resistant strains of C. gleum, posing challenges in treatment. Implementing judicious antibiotic practices involves considering the specific nature of the infection, employing targeted therapies, and avoiding the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics, thereby preserving their effectiveness.
Chryseobacterium gleum Isolation from Respiratory Culture Following Community-Acquired Pneumonia – PMC (nih.gov)
Chryseobacterium gleum bacteraemia: first reported cases from Qatar – ScienceDirect
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