Bordetella pertussis

Bordetella pertussis is a Gram-negative, aerobic, pathogenic bacterium of the genus Bordetella. It is the causative agent of pertussis or whooping cough, a highly contagious human disease.

Characteristics

Bordetella pertussis is a small, Gram-negative, coccobacillus. It is aerobic and non-motile. The bacterium is encapsulated and has a strictly human reservoir.

Pathogenesis

Bordetella pertussis is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets. The bacteria attach to the cilia of the respiratory epithelium, impairing the clearing function and causing inflammation. The bacterium produces several toxins, including pertussis toxin, which disrupts the signaling of the host's immune system, allowing the bacteria to evade clearance.

Clinical Manifestations

The disease caused by Bordetella pertussis, pertussis, is characterized by severe coughing spells that end in a "whooping" sound when the person breathes in. The disease has three stages: the catarrhal stage, the paroxysmal stage, and the convalescent stage.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Bordetella pertussis infection is based on clinical symptoms and confirmed by culture or PCR testing. Treatment is with antibiotics, and prevention is through vaccination.

Epidemiology

Bordetella pertussis is found worldwide and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. In developed countries, the incidence of pertussis has been rising, despite widespread vaccination.

See Also

• Pertussis vaccine
• Bordetella parapertussis
• Bordetella bronchiseptica