Citrobacter murliniae

Citrobacter murliniae

Citrobacter murliniae

Citrobacter murliniae is a species of Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the genus Citrobacter. It was first isolated and identified by Dr. James M. Steckelberg and his colleagues in 1993. The species name murliniae is in honor of Dr. Murlin, a renowned microbiologist who made significant contributions to the field.

Taxonomy

Citrobacter murliniae is classified under the family Enterobacteriaceae and the order Enterobacterales. It is closely related to other species within the Citrobacter genus, such as Citrobacter freundii and Citrobacter koseri.

Morphology and Physiology

Citrobacter murliniae is a rod-shaped bacterium, typically measuring around 1-2 micrometers in length. It is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. It is motile, possessing peritrichous flagella that enable it to move in liquid environments.

Habitat and Distribution

Citrobacter murliniae is commonly found in various environmental sources, including soil, water, and plants. It can also be isolated from the gastrointestinal tracts of animals, including humans. The bacteria can survive and persist in these habitats due to its ability to adapt to different conditions.

Pathogenicity

Citrobacter murliniae is generally considered to be an opportunistic pathogen, meaning it primarily causes infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying medical conditions. It has been associated with various infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and bloodstream infections. However, it is important to note that Citrobacter murliniae is not a common cause of infections and is generally less virulent compared to other species within the Citrobacter genus.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing Citrobacter murliniae infections typically involves isolating and identifying the bacteria from clinical samples, such as urine, blood, or respiratory secretions. This is usually done through culture and biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is also performed to determine the most effective treatment options.

Treatment of Citrobacter murliniae infections usually involves the use of antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones, cephalosporins, or carbapenems. However, the choice of antibiotics may vary depending on the specific infection and the susceptibility of the bacteria to different drugs. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

See Also

• Citrobacter freundii
• Citrobacter koseri
• Enterobacteriaceae
• Gram-negative bacteria