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Eikenella corrodens in human mouth flora
G M Rayan1, J L Putnam, S L Cahill
1Orthopaedic Surgery Department, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City.
Abstract:
The incidence of Eikenella corrodens in the human mouth was studied in 229 individuals. Six (2.6%) had positive cultures. The incidence of positive cultures for the saliva group was 0.6% and for the tooth-scraping group it was 8.2%. When 11 isolates were tested against 33 antimicrobials by disc-agar diffusion, 82% were susceptible to penicillin, cephalothin, and cefoperazone. Susceptibility to the remaining second- and third-generation cephalosporins studied was 100%. We suggest that the use of a second- or third-generation cephalosporin only is appropriate empiric therapy for human bite injuries.
Insights
Eikenella corrodens, a bacterium found in the human mouth, was identified in 2.6% of individuals studied. Second- or third-generation cephalosporins demonstrated 100% effectiveness against isolates, suggesting their use for human bite injuries.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Infectious diseases
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
Background:
- Eikenella corrodens is a component of the normal human oral flora.
- Human bite injuries can lead to infections, often polymicrobial.
- Understanding the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. corrodens is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of Eikenella corrodens in the human oral cavity.
- To assess the in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of E. corrodens isolates.
- To provide recommendations for empiric antibiotic therapy for human bite injuries.
Main Methods:
- Culture analysis of saliva and tooth scrapings from 229 individuals.
- Disc-agar diffusion method to test 11 E. corrodens isolates against 33 antimicrobials.
- Statistical analysis of incidence and susceptibility data.
Main Results:
- Eikenella corrodens was detected in 2.6% of the 229 individuals.
- The incidence was significantly higher in tooth scrapings (8.2%) compared to saliva (0.6%).
- 100% susceptibility was observed for second- and third-generation cephalosporins, and 82% for penicillin, cephalothin, and cefoperazone.
Conclusions:
- Eikenella corrodens has a low incidence in human saliva but is more prevalent on teeth.
- Second- and third-generation cephalosporins are highly effective against E. corrodens isolates.
- Empiric therapy with second- or third-generation cephalosporins is recommended for human bite injuries involving E. corrodens.