Nocardia madurae, a type of bacterium that causes mycetoma, is pronounced as "noh-kahr-dee-uh muh-dyoo-rey" in IPA phonetic transcription. The word "Nocardia" is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, and the "ia" at the end is pronounced as "ya." The second word, "madurae," is pronounced with stress on the first syllable, and the ending "ae" is pronounced as "ee." Accurate spelling of scientific terms such as this is crucial for clear communication in medical and scientific fields.
Nocardia madurae is a species of bacteria that belongs to the genus Nocardia. It is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped, aerobic bacterium. Nocardia madurae is commonly found in soil and decaying vegetable matter, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
This bacterium is known to cause a human disease called mycetoma, also referred to as Madura foot or Maduramycosis. Mycetoma is a chronic, localized infection that affects the skin, muscles, and bones, usually in the extremities, such as the feet or hands. The infection occurs when Nocardia madurae enters the body through a break in the skin, such as a wound or puncture.
Nocardia madurae typically forms granules, which are compact masses of bacteria and host tissue, at the site of infection. These granules can vary in size and color, typically being yellow, white, or black, depending on the type of bacteria involved. The infection may lead to the destruction of tissues, resulting in deformities and disabilities if left untreated.
Diagnosis of Nocardia madurae infection often involves analyzing clinical samples, such as pus or tissue biopsies, and performing microbiological culture and microscopy. Treatment usually involves a combination of long-term antibiotics, such as sulfonamides or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, along with surgical intervention in severe cases. Close monitoring and follow-up are necessary due to the chronic nature of the infection.
Streptothrix madurce, the cause of white mycetoma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Nocardia madurae" has an interesting etymology.
"Nocardia" is named after the French veterinarian and microbiologist Edmond Nocard (1850-1903), who was known for his significant contributions in the field of bacteriology. Nocard first described the genus Nocardia in 1894 as a group of bacteria characterized by their branching filaments. The name "Nocardia" serves as a tribute to his pioneering work in the field.
The specific epithet "madurae" refers to Madura, a region in India where the bacterium was first identified and isolated. The term was coined in recognition of the geographical origin of Nocardia madurae.
So, "Nocardia madurae" is named after Edmond Nocard and the region in India where it was first discovered.