Enterococcus faecalis

Enterococcus faecalis is a species of bacteria that is often found in the human gastrointestinal tract. It is a Gram-positive, coccus-shaped bacterium that is part of the Enterococcus genus.

Characteristics

Enterococcus faecalis is facultatively anaerobic, meaning it can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen. It is also halotolerant, able to survive in high salt concentrations, and can grow at temperatures ranging from 10 to 45 degrees Celsius.

Pathogenicity

While Enterococcus faecalis is a normal part of the human gut flora, it can also be a cause of disease. It is a common cause of urinary tract infections and bacteremia, and can also cause endocarditis and meningitis. Its ability to form biofilms contributes to its pathogenicity, as this can protect the bacteria from the host's immune response and from antibiotics.

Antibiotic Resistance

Enterococcus faecalis is known for its high level of antibiotic resistance. It is naturally resistant to many antibiotics, including aminoglycosides, and can acquire resistance to others through horizontal gene transfer. This has led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, which are a significant concern in healthcare settings.

Treatment

Treatment of infections caused by Enterococcus faecalis can be challenging due to its antibiotic resistance. However, certain antibiotics, such as ampicillin, vancomycin, and linezolid, are often effective. In cases of multidrug-resistant infections, combination therapy may be used.

See Also

• Enterococcus
• Antibiotic resistance
• Biofilm
• Gram-positive bacteria