Mycobacteria

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What is Mycobacteria?

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A genus of bacteria known for their slow growth and complex cell wall structure, which includes species that can cause diseases in humans and animals.

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What is M. haemophilum?

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A species of Mycobacteria that requires hemin or hemoglobin for growth and is associated with submandibular lymphadenitis and skin infections.

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What are the clinical manifestations of M. haemophilum infection?

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Submandibular lymphadenitis, subcutaneous nodules, painful swellings, ulcers progressing to abscesses, and draining fistulas.

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What is M. marinum?

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A species of Mycobacteria implicated in fish diseases and cutaneous infections in humans, often associated with exposure to saltwater or inadequately chlorinated water.

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What are the biochemical characteristics of M. marinum?

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Hydrolyzes Tween 80, produces urease and pyrazinamidase, but is nitrate reduction and heat-stable catalase negative.

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What is M. kansasii?

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A species of Mycobacteria that is photochromogenic, strongly catalase-positive, and associated with pulmonary infections.

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What are the characteristics of photochromogenic colonies?

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Colonies that develop pigment upon exposure to light after being grown in the dark.

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What is the role of Pyrazinamide in tuberculosis treatment?

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A drug that shortens the treatment duration and minimizes the risk of relapse in tuberculosis patients.

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What is the difference between scotochromogens and photochromogens?

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Scotochromogens develop pigment in the dark, while photochromogens develop pigment only when exposed to light.

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What is the significance of nitrate reduction in Mycobacteria?

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Nitrate reduction is a biochemical test used to differentiate between various species of Mycobacteria.