[Branhamella catarrhalis as a disease pathogen]

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology

Background:

• Branhamella catarrhalis has emerged as a significant pathogen globally since 1980.
• Increasing incidence of Branhamella infections observed in various geographical locations.
• Commonly implicated in respiratory tract and ocular infections in both pediatric and adult populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathogenic role and increasing prevalence of Branhamella catarrhalis.
• To highlight the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance in treating Branhamella infections.
• To provide guidance on appropriate antibiotic selection for Branhamella catarrhalis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published reports on Branhamella catarrhalis.
• Analysis of infection trends and common sites of manifestation.
• Assessment of antibiotic resistance patterns, particularly beta-lactamase production.

Main Results:

• Branhamella catarrhalis infections are on the rise worldwide.
• The bacterium frequently causes infections of the airways and eyes.
• A significant increase in beta-lactamase-producing strains leads to penicillin treatment failures.

Conclusions:

• Branhamella catarrhalis is an increasingly important pathogen, especially in respiratory and ocular infections.
• The prevalence of penicillin-resistant strains necessitates alternative treatment strategies.
• Beta-lactamase-stable antibiotics are recommended for effective treatment of Branhamella catarrhalis infections.