Mycobacterium microti

Mycobacterium microti is a species of bacteria belonging to the genus Mycobacterium. It is a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, a group of closely related species known to cause tuberculosis in various animal species. M. microti is primarily associated with tuberculosis in voles, but it can also infect other animals, including humans.

Taxonomy

Mycobacterium microti was first described in 1937 by Arloing and Courmont. It is classified within the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, which also includes Mycobacterium bovis, Mycobacterium africanum, Mycobacterium canettii, and others. These species share over 99% genetic similarity and are often difficult to distinguish.

Pathogenesis

M. microti is primarily a pathogen of voles, causing a form of tuberculosis that is similar to the disease caused by M. bovis in cattle. The bacteria are transmitted between voles through direct contact and inhalation of aerosolized bacteria.

In humans, M. microti infections are rare but have been reported. The disease in humans is similar to tuberculosis caused by M. tuberculosis, with symptoms including chronic cough, weight loss, and fatigue.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of M. microti infection in humans is challenging due to the rarity of the disease and the difficulty in distinguishing M. microti from other members of the M. tuberculosis complex. Molecular techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), are often used for diagnosis.

Treatment of M. microti infection in humans typically involves a combination of antibiotics used to treat tuberculosis, including isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.

See Also

• Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Mycobacterium bovis
• Tuberculosis

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