CAPNOCYTOPHAGA Meaning and
Definition
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Capnocytophaga is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the family Flavobacteriaceae. These bacteria are commensal inhabitants of the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract of various animals as well as humans. Capnocytophaga spp. are facultative anaerobic bacteria that generally thrive in environments with reduced oxygen levels.
Capnocytophaga species are characterized by their fusiform or rod-like shape, often appearing elongated or filamentous. They are non-motile, non-spore-forming, and oxidase and catalase positive. These bacteria have the ability to variably ferment carbohydrates and can metabolize short-chain fatty acids, demonstrating their versatility in utilizing different energy sources.
Although most strains of Capnocytophaga are considered harmless commensals, certain species have been implicated in opportunistic infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. Capnocytophaga can cause a range of clinical manifestations, including localized cellulitis, periodontitis, soft tissue abscesses, septicemia, endocarditis, meningitis, and respiratory infections. In some rare cases, severe systemic infections caused by Capnocytophaga spp. have been associated with a high risk of mortality.
Capnocytophaga infections are often acquired through animal bites, particularly from dogs and cats. Transmission can also occur from close contact with pets and exposure to contaminated environmental sources. Identification and diagnosis of Capnocytophaga spp. require laboratory testing using culture-based techniques, molecular methods, or serologic assays. Treatment typically involves the administration of antibiotics, such as beta-lactams or beta-lactamase inhibitors, or other agents effective against Gram-negative bacteria.
Common Misspellings for CAPNOCYTOPHAGA
- xapnocytophaga
- vapnocytophaga
- fapnocytophaga
- dapnocytophaga
- czpnocytophaga
- cspnocytophaga
- cwpnocytophaga
- cqpnocytophaga
- caonocytophaga
- calnocytophaga
- ca-nocytophaga
- ca0nocytophaga
- capbocytophaga
- capmocytophaga
- capjocytophaga
- caphocytophaga
- capnicytophaga
- capnkcytophaga
- capnlcytophaga
- capnpcytophaga
Etymology of CAPNOCYTOPHAGA
The word "Capnocytophaga" is derived from two Greek words: "capno" meaning "smoke" and "cyto" meaning "cell", and "phaga" which means "to eat". Thus, "Capnocytophaga" can be interpreted as "smoke-eating cell". This name was given to the bacteria because of its ability to utilize the by-products of cellular respiration, such as carbon dioxide (producing a smoke-like appearance), as a source of energy.
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