Citrobacter farmeri

Citrobacter farmeri

Citrobacter farmeri

Citrobacter farmeri is a species of gram-negative bacteria belonging to the genus Citrobacter. It was first isolated and identified by Farmer et al. in 1981. This bacterium is commonly found in the environment, including soil, water, and various animals. It is also known to be an opportunistic pathogen, causing infections in humans, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Taxonomy

Citrobacter farmeri is classified under the domain Bacteria, phylum Proteobacteria, class Gammaproteobacteria, order Enterobacterales, family Enterobacteriaceae, and genus Citrobacter. It was named after the American microbiologist Edward J. Farmer, who contributed significantly to the field of clinical microbiology.

Morphology and Physiology

Citrobacter farmeri is a rod-shaped bacterium, typically measuring around 1-2 micrometers in length. It is motile due to the presence of peritrichous flagella. This bacterium is facultatively anaerobic, meaning it can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. It is also capable of fermenting glucose and producing acid and gas as metabolic byproducts.

Pathogenesis

Citrobacter farmeri is considered an opportunistic pathogen, meaning it primarily causes infections in individuals with weakened immune systems. It can cause a variety of infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, bloodstream infections, and wound infections. In immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, Citrobacter farmeri can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening infections.

Treatment and Prevention

The treatment of Citrobacter farmeri infections typically involves the use of antibiotics. However, due to the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, it is important to perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing to determine the most effective treatment options. Prevention of Citrobacter farmeri infections involves practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, proper food handling, and maintaining a clean environment.

See Also

• Citrobacter
• Opportunistic infection
• Gram-negative bacteria