BACILLUS ICTEROGENES Meaning and
Definition
-
Bacillus icterogenes refers to a bacterium that belongs to the genus Bacillus. It is characterized by its ability to cause jaundice, a condition marked by yellowing of the skin and eyes, in humans and other animals.
This Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can survive and grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen. Bacillus icterogenes is primarily found in soil, water, and contaminated environments.
The pathogenicity of Bacillus icterogenes is attributed to its ability to produce various toxins and enzymes that contribute to the onset of jaundice. One of the main toxins produced by this bacterium is bilirubin oxidase, which breaks down bilirubin, a yellow pigment that accumulates in the body during liver malfunction. This breakdown of bilirubin leads to the characteristic yellowing of the skin, eyes, and other body tissues.
In terms of disease transmission, Bacillus icterogenes can be acquired through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, or by inhaling aerosols containing the bacterium. The symptoms of Bacillus icterogenes infection may include fever, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine, and a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes.
To diagnose Bacillus icterogenes infection, laboratory tests such as culture and isolation of the bacterium from clinical samples are performed. Treatment typically involves the use of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria, alongside supportive measures to manage the symptoms.
Etymology of BACILLUS ICTEROGENES
The word Bacillus icterogenes has its etymology derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The term Bacillus comes from the Latin word baculus, which means a small rod or stick. In the context of microbiology, it is used to refer to bacteria with a rod-like shape.
Ictero- is derived from the Greek word ikteros, meaning jaundice.
Genes originates from the Greek word genos, meaning origin or birth.
Therefore, the term Bacillus icterogenes can be translated to mean rod-shaped bacteria causing jaundice.
