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[The infectivity of Enterococcus faecalis in experimental urinary tract infection in mice: II]
Abstract:
The infectivity of Enterococcus faecalis was compared with that of Escherichia coli in the urinary tract in mice. The infectivity of E. faecalis in normal mice was found to be equal to that of E. coli. The mice previously treated with cyclophosphamide, carrageenin or alloxan as the immunosuppressive drug, and restricted water supply, were more susceptible to enterococcal infection than non-treated ones. These data were confirmed with histological examinations. E. faecalis is a pathogenic organism in the urinary tract and therefore cautions should be given to the treatment in clinical practice.
Insights
Enterococcus faecalis shows equal infectivity to Escherichia coli in mouse urinary tracts. Immunosuppression and dehydration increase susceptibility to enterococcal infections, highlighting clinical treatment considerations.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Urology
Background:
- Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli are common causes of urinary tract infections.
- Understanding the comparative infectivity of these pathogens is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the infectivity of Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli in the murine urinary tract.
- To investigate the impact of immunosuppression and dehydration on susceptibility to enterococcal infection.
Main Methods:
- Comparative infectivity study in normal and immunosuppressed mice.
- Induction of immunosuppression using cyclophosphamide, carrageenin, and alloxan.
- Histological examination to confirm infection and tissue damage.
Main Results:
- Enterococcus faecalis demonstrated infectivity comparable to Escherichia coli in normal mice.
- Immunosuppressed mice and those with restricted water supply exhibited increased susceptibility to enterococcal urinary tract infections.
- Histological findings corroborated the increased susceptibility and severity of infection.
Conclusions:
- Enterococcus faecalis is a significant pathogen in urinary tract infections.
- Clinical management of enterococcal UTIs requires careful consideration, especially in immunocompromised or dehydrated patients.