Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacteria that is the causative agent of Erysipeloid, a skin condition in humans, and Swine erysipelas, a disease in pigs. It is a facultative anaerobe and is catalase-negative.

Taxonomy

The genus Erysipelothrix is classified within the phylum Firmicutes, class Bacilli, order Lactobacillales, and family Erysipelotrichaceae. The genus contains two species, Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae and Erysipelothrix tonsillarum, with E. rhusiopathiae being the type species.

Pathogenesis

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is the causative agent of Erysipeloid, a cutaneous infection in humans, and Swine erysipelas, a systemic disease in pigs. The bacterium is found worldwide and can infect a wide range of animals, including birds, fish, and reptiles. In humans, infection usually occurs through skin wounds that come into contact with contaminated material.

Clinical Manifestations

In humans, E. rhusiopathiae causes a localized cutaneous infection known as Erysipeloid. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain at the site of infection. In rare cases, the bacterium can cause a systemic infection, leading to endocarditis or septicemia.

In pigs, the bacterium causes Swine erysipelas, a disease characterized by skin lesions, fever, and arthritis. The disease can be acute, subacute, or chronic, depending on the virulence of the strain and the immune status of the host.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of E. rhusiopathiae infection is based on clinical signs and isolation of the bacterium from clinical samples. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics, with penicillin being the drug of choice.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of E. rhusiopathiae infection in animals involve good hygiene practices and vaccination. In humans, prevention involves the use of protective clothing and gloves when handling potentially contaminated material.

See Also

• Erysipeloid
• Swine erysipelas
• Endocarditis
• Septicemia