MYCOBACTERIA Meaning and
Definition
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Mycobacteria are a group of rod-shaped bacteria belonging to the family Mycobacteriaceae, which are characterized by their unique cell wall structure containing high amounts of mycolic acids. This attribute contributes to their resistance to many antibiotics and disinfectants, making them challenging to treat. Mycobacteria are considered the causative agents of various infections in both animals and humans.
This subgroup of bacteria includes several species, with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae being the most notable. M. tuberculosis is responsible for the development of tuberculosis, a contagious disease primarily affecting the lungs. M. leprae, on the other hand, is the pathogen associated with leprosy, a chronic infection that affects the peripheral nerves, skin, and other tissues.
Mycobacteria exhibit slow growth, typically taking several weeks to form visible colonies on culture media. They are classified as acid-fast bacilli due to their ability to retain the primary dye used in acid-fast staining techniques, even after being exposed to acid decolorization agents. This staining property is essential for their identification and differentiation from other bacteria.
Although mycobacteria can cause severe diseases in humans, they can also be found in various environmental niches, such as water, soil, and animals. Some species, like Mycobacterium avium complex, can cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV/AIDS.
Overall, mycobacteria are a diverse group of bacteria known for their unique cell wall structure, slow growth, and significance as human and animal pathogens.
Common Misspellings for MYCOBACTERIA
Etymology of MYCOBACTERIA
The word "mycobacteria" is derived from two main components: "myco" and "bacteria".
- The prefix "myco" is derived from the Greek word "mukēs" (μύκης), meaning "fungus" or "mushroom". This prefix is commonly used in the context of various fungal-related terms or organisms.
- The term "bacteria" comes from the Greek word "bakterion" (βακτήριον), which means "small rod" or "staff". It refers to the singular form of the word, while "bacteria" is the plural form. The term was originally coined by German physician and microbiologist Ferdinand Cohn in 1872 to describe microscopic single-celled organisms.
Similar spelling words for MYCOBACTERIA
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