Mycobacterium

BIO 3

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 10
3. Mycobacterium min

Mycobacterium is a genus of bacteria that encompasses over

190 species. While some are harmless, this group is particularly
significant because it includes some notorious pathogens
responsible for serious diseases in humans and animals.
The two most well-known members of this genus are:
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: This bacterium is the culprit
behind tuberculosis (TB), a major global health threat. TB
primarily attacks the lungs, but it can infect any part of the body.
There have been ongoing efforts to control TB, but outbreaks
still occur, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare.
Mycobacterium leprae: This species causes leprosy, a chronic
infectious disease that affects the peripheral nerves, skin, and
mucous membranes. While leprosy is treatable, delays in Click on the model to interact
diagnosis and treatment can lead to permanent disabilities.
 Identification 15
min

Identification: Since Gram staining isn't

reliable for M. tb, other methods are used for
identification:
Acid-fast staining: Techniques like Ziehl–
Neelsen or auramine staining highlight the
waxy cell wall, making M. tb appear red
against a blue background.
Biochemical tests: Several tests can be used to
identify M. tb, but they often require cultured
samples and can be time-consuming. Some
examples include niacin production and
nitrate reduction tests. Click to open in Lifeliqe
 Characteristics:
Morphology and Staining:
Rod-shaped bacteria similar in both species.
Gram Staining: Unreliable due to unique cell
walls rich in mycolic acids.
Identification Challenges of M. leprae:
Slow growth impedes culture-based diagnosis.
Acid-fast staining less intense compared to M. tb.
Limited biochemical tests available.
Diagnostic Methods:
Diagnosis relies on clinical symptoms, skin
biopsies, and PCR for M. leprae DNA.
Virulence Factors and Pathogenicity:
15
min
Virulence Factors and Pathogenicity:
M. tuberculosis:
Waxy cell wall, capsule, secretion of enzymes/toxins.
Intracellular persistence.
M. leprae:
Extreme specialization, slow growth.
Peripheral nerve damage, immune evasion.
Antibiotic Resistance and Transmission:
M. tuberculosis:
Growing drug resistance, airborne transmission.
M. leprae:
Less prone to resistance, transmission via close contact.
Notable Feature:
M. leprae: Difficulty in diagnosis due to slow growth and
limited lab tests.
Source
Transmission Routes and Reservoirs

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb):

Source: Humans with active TB disease in lungs or respiratory tract.

Transmission Route: Airborne through coughs, sneezes, or talking.
Reservoir: Humans are the sole known reservoir.
Mycobacterium leprae:

Source: Humans with untreated or undiagnosed leprosy.

Transmission Route: Close, prolonged contact; possibly skin-to-skin or via respiratory droplets.
Reservoir: Primarily humans; rare instances from wild animals like armadillos.
Important Considerations:

M. tb transmission efficiency affected by immune status and environment ventilation.

M. leprae transmission less efficient due to low bacterial load and prolonged contact.
Contaminated environments and healthcare facilities pose additional risks.
 Preventive Measures
Preventive Measures for TB and Leprosy
General Public:
M. tuberculosis (TB):
Maintain good ventilation.
Practice cough etiquette.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Consider BCG vaccination.
M. leprae (Leprosy):
Limit close contact with suspected cases. areas.
Practice good hygiene.
Be aware of symptoms.
Healthcare Professionals:
Ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
Implement strict infection control
measures.
Follow antimicrobial stewardship.
Educate the public.
Additional Considerations:
Screening and surveillance in high-risk
Continued research and development
efforts.
 Current Situation:
Prevalence: Approximately 127,600 new
M. tuberculosis (TB): cases reported globally in 2020.
Surveillance: WHO tracks leprosy through
Prevalence: WHO estimates 10.6 million annual reports and case notification data.
TB cases and 1.4 million deaths in 2021. Interventions: Global Leprosy Programme
Surveillance: WHO monitors TB burden focuses on early diagnosis and treatment.
through annual reports. Challenges: Stigma and difficulty in
Interventions: Stop TB Strategy diagnosing mild cases.
emphasizes early diagnosis and Source of Information:
treatment.
Challenges: Drug-resistant TB strains and Information sourced from the World
social determinants of health. Health Organization (WHO).
M. leprae (Leprosy):