BACILLUS DIPHTHERIAE COLUMBARUM Meaning and
Definition
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Bacillus diphtheriae columbarum is a specific strain or subspecies of the bacterium Bacillus diphtheriae. The term "bacillus" refers to a rod-shaped bacterium that is gram-positive, meaning it retains the purple color when subjected to the Gram staining method. B. diphtheriae is the causative agent of the highly contagious respiratory disease diphtheria.
Bacillus diphtheriae columbarum is typically associated with the respiratory tract of pigeons, hence its name "columbarum", which means "of pigeons" in Latin. This strain is a specialized variant of B. diphtheriae that thrives in the specific environment of pigeon respiratory tracts. It is commonly found in these birds, often without causing any noticeable symptoms or harm to them.
In humans, however, contact with B. diphtheriae columbarum can result in respiratory diphtheria, which is a potentially severe and life-threatening illness. The bacterium produces a potent exotoxin called diphtheria toxin, which is responsible for the characteristic symptoms of diphtheria, such as the formation of a thick greyish membrane in the throat or nose.
Control and prevention measures against B. diphtheriae columbarum involve proper hygienic practices, immunization programs, and surveillance of pigeon populations. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin are crucial for managing cases of diphtheria caused by this particular strain.
