Anaplasmataceae

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Anaplasmataceae
Kingdom:
Phylum:	Proteobacteria
Class:	Alphaproteobacteria
Order:	Rickettsiales
Family:	Anaplasmataceae

Anaplasmataceae is a family of bacteria within the order Rickettsiales, class Alphaproteobacteria. Members of this family are obligate intracellular parasites, primarily infecting vertebrates and invertebrates. They are known to cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals, often transmitted by arthropod vectors such as ticks.

Characteristics

Anaplasmataceae are small, gram-negative bacteria that lack a cell wall, which is typical of many intracellular bacteria. They reside within the host cell's cytoplasm or within membrane-bound vacuoles. These bacteria have a unique developmental cycle that includes infectious and reproductive forms.

Genera

The family Anaplasmataceae includes several genera, notable among them are:

• Anaplasma: This genus includes species such as Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which causes human granulocytic anaplasmosis.
• Ehrlichia: Includes Ehrlichia chaffeensis, the causative agent of human monocytic ehrlichiosis.
• Neorickettsia: Known for causing diseases such as Potomac horse fever.
• Wolbachia: A genus of bacteria that infects arthropods and some nematodes, known for its role in reproductive manipulations of its hosts.

Pathogenesis

Anaplasmataceae are transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of infected ticks. Once inside the host, these bacteria invade white blood cells, where they can evade the host's immune response. The clinical manifestations of infections can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe, life-threatening conditions.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of infections caused by Anaplasmataceae typically involves serological tests, PCR, and blood smears. Treatment often includes the use of antibiotics such as doxycycline, which is effective against many of these intracellular bacteria.

Prevention

Preventive measures focus on reducing exposure to tick bites through the use of insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and performing regular tick checks after potential exposure.

Also see

• Rickettsiales
• Tick-borne diseases
• Intracellular bacteria
• Vector-borne diseases