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Adherence of bacteria to human foreskins
E N Fussell1, M B Kaack, R Cherry
1Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, Delta Regional Primate Research Center, Covington, Louisiana.
The Journal of Urology
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Pathogenic bacteria adhere to the newborn foreskin via fimbriae and other factors. This bacterial adherence may precede urinary tract infections in male infants, suggesting prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Urology
- Neonatal Health
Background:
- The mucosal surface of the human foreskin is susceptible to pathogenic bacterial colonization.
- Bacterial adherence to host surfaces is a critical initial step in many infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the factors contributing to pathogenic bacterial adherence to the neonatal foreskin.
- To explore the potential link between foreskin bacterial colonization and urinary tract infections (UTIs) in male neonates.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of bacterial adherence mechanisms to the human foreskin.
- Review of existing literature on bacterial colonization and UTI incidence.
Main Results:
- Pathogenic bacteria, including those with P fimbriae and type 1 fimbriae, adhere to the foreskin.
- Hydrophobic interactions and electrostatic charges play significant roles in bacterial adherence, alongside fimbriae.
- Bacterial adherence to the foreskin is hypothesized to be a prerequisite for UTI development in male infants.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial adherence to the neonatal foreskin is a multifactorial process.
- The high incidence of UTIs in uncircumcised males may be linked to foreskin bacterial colonization.
- Preventing UTIs in male neonates might involve circumcision or interventions to inhibit bacterial adherence to the foreskin.