Eikenella corrodens

Eikenella corrodens is a Gram-negative, facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium that is commonly found in the human mouth. It is a member of the HACEK group, which is a group of fastidious Gram-negative bacteria that are an unusual cause of endocarditis.

Characteristics

Eikenella corrodens is oxidase-positive and catalase-negative. It is non-motile and does not form spores. The bacterium is known for its characteristic "bleach-like" odor when cultured. It is also capable of corroding the agar surface when grown in a laboratory setting, which is the origin of its species name, "corrodens".

Pathogenesis

Eikenella corrodens is a part of the normal flora of the human mouth and upper respiratory tract. However, it can cause disease when it enters the bloodstream, often as a result of trauma or surgery. It is a common cause of human bite infections, along with other oral bacteria. It can also cause other types of infections, including endocarditis, brain abscesses, pneumonia, and osteomyelitis.

Treatment

Eikenella corrodens is usually susceptible to many antibiotics, including penicillin, ampicillin, cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones. However, it is resistant to macrolides and clindamycin. Treatment usually involves a combination of surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy.

Epidemiology

Eikenella corrodens is found worldwide and affects people of all ages. However, it is most commonly seen in adults with poor oral hygiene or those with underlying medical conditions that affect the immune system.

See also

• HACEK organisms
• Infective endocarditis
• Human bite infections