MYCOBACTERIUM Meaning and
Definition
-
Mycobacterium is a genus of bacteria belonging to the family Mycobacteriaceae. These bacteria are characterized by their unique cell wall structure which contains high concentrations of mycolic acids, making them resistant to many traditional antibiotics. Mycobacterium species are primarily found in soil and water, although some are pathogens of humans and animals.
Mycobacteria are rod-shaped, non-spore forming bacteria that can be either aerobic or facultatively anaerobic. They are acid-fast, meaning they can retain a dye (carbol fuchsin) even when washed with acid-alcohol, and this property is often used in laboratory tests to identify them.
Several species of mycobacteria are known pathogens of humans, causing diseases such as tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis), leprosy (Mycobacterium leprae), and non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections. These infections can be life-threatening, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
In addition to their pathogenicity, mycobacteria also play an essential role in the environment, particularly in the nutrient recycling process. They are known to degrade various compounds, including hydrocarbons, and are used in bioremediation to break down pollutants.
Understanding the biology and classification of mycobacteria is crucial for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mycobacterial infections. Ongoing research aims to discover new antibiotics and treatments for mycobacterial diseases as well as improve diagnostic methods to identify different species accurately.
-
A genus of Mycobacteriaceae, which includes many organisms usually denominated Bacillus, such as those of tuberculosis, leprosy, diphtheria, influenza, glanders, etc.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MYCOBACTERIUM
Etymology of MYCOBACTERIUM
The word "mycobacterium" is derived from two components: "myco-" and "bacterium".
- "Myco-" is a prefix that originates from the Greek word "mykes", meaning fungus. It is often used to refer to anything related to fungi or fungus-like organisms.
- "Bacterium" comes from the Greek word "bakterion", meaning small staff or rod. It is commonly used to describe single-celled microorganisms.
When combined, "myco-" and "bacterium" create the term "mycobacterium", which refers to a genus of bacteria characterized by their rod-like shape and cell wall composition. Mycobacteria typically include species that can cause diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy.
Similar spelling words for MYCOBACTERIUM
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
