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Haemophilus influenzae type B and its role in diseases of the head and neck
1Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Abstract:
Haemophilus influenzae is a common pathogen in infections of the head and neck. Although most mucosal infections (otitis media, sinusitis) are caused by non-encapsulated organisms, invasive disease (meningitis, periorbital cellulitis, epiglottis) is caused by type B encapsulated organisms. Bacteremia is common with H. influenzae type B infections and therapy with parenteral antibiotics is indicated. A vaccine against H. influenzae type B given at 18 months of age is now part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. Chemoprophylaxis with rifampin is recommended for at-risk contacts of patients with invasive type B disease. This review examines the bacteriology, pathogenesis, immunity, and disease manifestations of H. influenzae. Appropriate diagnostic methods, antimicrobial therapy, and recommended chemoprophylaxis and immunoprophylaxis are presented.
Insights
Haemophilus influenzae causes head and neck infections. A vaccine for type B Haemophilus influenzae (Hib) prevents invasive disease, and rifampin chemoprophylaxis is advised for contacts.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Haemophilus influenzae is a frequent cause of head and neck infections.
- Non-encapsulated strains typically cause mucosal infections, while encapsulated type B strains lead to invasive diseases like meningitis.
- Bacteremia is common in type B infections, necessitating parenteral antibiotic treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the bacteriology, pathogenesis, immunity, and disease manifestations of Haemophilus influenzae.
- To outline appropriate diagnostic methods, antimicrobial therapy, and prophylaxis strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Haemophilus influenzae.
- Examination of bacteriology, pathogenesis, and immunity.
- Analysis of disease manifestations, diagnostics, and treatment.
Main Results:
- Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) infections are associated with bacteremia and require parenteral antibiotics.
- A Hib vaccine, administered at 18 months, is part of routine childhood immunization.
- Rifampin chemoprophylaxis is recommended for at-risk contacts of invasive Hib disease.
Conclusions:
- Effective strategies including vaccination and chemoprophylaxis exist for managing Haemophilus influenzae type B.
- Understanding the organism's characteristics is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.