Cardiobacterium hominis

Cardiobacterium hominis is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is commonly found in the human mouth. It is a member of the HACEK group, a group of bacteria that are a rare cause of infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves.

Characteristics

Cardiobacterium hominis is a catalase-negative and oxidase-positive bacterium. It is also fermentative, and can ferment carbohydrates. The bacterium is usually susceptible to antibiotics, including penicillin and ampicillin.

Pathogenesis

Cardiobacterium hominis is one of the bacteria that can cause infective endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart valves. This typically occurs in individuals who have pre-existing heart conditions. The bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the mouth, often as a result of dental procedures or poor oral hygiene. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can attach to damaged heart valves and start to multiply, leading to infective endocarditis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of an infection caused by Cardiobacterium hominis is typically made by blood culture, as the bacteria can be found in the bloodstream of infected individuals. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, often given intravenously. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

Epidemiology

Infections caused by Cardiobacterium hominis are rare. They are most commonly seen in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, particularly those with damaged heart valves. The bacteria are part of the normal flora of the mouth, and are therefore more likely to cause infection in individuals with poor oral hygiene or who undergo dental procedures.

See also

• HACEK organisms
• Infective endocarditis
• Gram-negative bacteria