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Spirochete-like organisms in the human gastrointestinal tract
P J Ruane1, M M Nakata, J F Reinhardt
1Wadsworth Division, West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Medical Center, California 90073.
Reviews of Infectious Diseases
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Human intestinal spirochetes, detected in 1884, remain poorly understood. Further research is needed to identify species and their role in human health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Human Health
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Spirochete-like organisms have been observed in human feces since 1884.
- Despite extensive study, the number of cultivable human intestinal spirochete species is unknown.
- The specific role of these spirochetes in human health and disease remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the need for further scientific investigation into human intestinal spirochetes.
- To emphasize the significance of recent advancements in microbiologic techniques for studying these organisms.
- To underscore the importance of understanding the prevalence and health implications of intestinal spirochetes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing epidemiologic and morphologic information.
- Recognition of recent advances in microbiologic techniques.
- Acknowledgement of high carriage rates (30%-40%) in certain populations.
Main Results:
- A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the diversity and function of human intestinal spirochetes.
- High prevalence in specific populations suggests potential clinical relevance.
- Advancements in microbiology offer new tools for investigation.
Conclusions:
- Careful scientific study is warranted to elucidate the characteristics of human intestinal spirochetes.
- The etiological role of these organisms in human health and disease requires definitive clarification.
- Further research is essential to determine the importance of intestinal spirochetes to human well-being.