What is leptothrix

Leptothrix, or leptotrichia is an anaerobic gram-negative bacterium that belongs to the family Fusobacteriaceae. It forms a thin thread (trixie) having segmented the ends and thickening in the center. Optimal growth of leptothrix occurs at high carbon dioxide concentrations.

Leptotrichia, its types

Often, leptothrix detected in mixed genital infections (chlamydia, trichomoniasis, candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis). Recent studies found that this bacterium plays a big role in the development of samoproizvol abortion, puerperal sepsis, septic arthritis. It is known that infection with Leptotrichia amnionii threatened abortion and the emergence of post-partum sepsis.

The relation between the infection with certain types of leptothrix and the emergence of bacteremia in novorojdennih, and occurrence of chorioamnionitis in women.

Vaginal leptotrichia is caused by species of Leptotrichia spp and is detected in approximately 4% of women. The disease manifests itself in the form of a slight discharge with grey and grey spots on the walls of the vagina. The relation between leptothrix and the emergence of bacterial vaginosis. It is believed that one of the factors in the development of vaginal leptotrichia is the use of intrauterine devices. This disease is not sexually transmitted, if women suffering from vaginal leptotrichia, the man they cannot catch it.

Leptotrichia oropharynx refers to HIV-related diseases, commonly found in patients with substantial immunosuppression, persons with blood diseases, cancer patients. The disease is caused by Leptotrichia buccalis. Often reportex in the mouth find in children, according to some this bacterium detects more than 40% of children under one year of age. According to research found a link with Leptotrichia buccalis bacteremia in children, endocarditis in patients with down syndrome, in adults with neutropenia. Need to know the main symptoms of leptotrichia oropharynx: gray spots and (or) white-white coating on the tonsils, Palatine arches, tongue.

The bacterium Leptotrichia buccalis is a congenital microflora of the oral cavity.

Diagnosis and treatment of leptotrichia

Leptotrichia detected with the help of research biomaterial under a microscope. To confirm the diagnosis is performed culture and research PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Standard therapy leptotrichia not currently developed. In each typical case, you use different antibacterial drugs. The identified sensitivity leptotrichia to clindamycin, beta-lactam antibiotics, metronidazole, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline resistance (resistance) to the aminoglycosides, macrolides and fluoroquinolones.