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Quantitative Examination of Antibiotic Susceptibility of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Aggregates Using ATP-utilization Commercial Assays and Live/Dead Staining
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Quantitative Examination of Antibiotic Susceptibility of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Aggregates Using ATP-utilization Commercial Assays and Live/Dead Staining

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Atypical, Yet Not Infrequent, Infections with Neisseria Species

Maria Victoria Humbert1, Myron Christodoulides1

  • 1Molecular Microbiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 22, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis cause gonorrhea and meningitis, respectively. This review highlights the diversity of Neisseria species and their potential as opportunistic pathogens, urging cautious clinical approaches.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Bacteriology

Background:

  • Neisseria species are adapted to mammalian hosts, with N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis being primary human pathogens.
  • N. gonorrhoeae causes gonorrhea (urethra, cervix), while N. meningitidis causes meningitis and sepsis (nasopharynx).
  • Despite distinct niches, these species can cross-colonize, leading to similar clinical presentations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diversity of the genus Neisseria in clinical settings.
  • To emphasize the potential of non-pathogenic Neisseria species as opportunistic pathogens.
  • To advocate for increased vigilance in diagnosing and treating Neisseria-associated diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical case reports and medical evidence.
  • Analysis of Neisseria species' adaptation, pathogenicity, and clinical manifestations.
  • Synthesis of information on cross-colonization and opportunistic behavior.

Main Results:

  • Neisseria species exhibit diverse clinical presentations and host-pathogen interactions.
  • Cross-colonization between N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis can occur.
  • Commensal Neisseria species may act as opportunistic pathogens.

Conclusions:

  • The genus Neisseria encompasses a broader range of clinical relevance than previously recognized.
  • Clinicians and microbiologists should consider opportunistic infections by less common Neisseria species.
  • Further research and diagnostic awareness are crucial for managing Neisseria-related pathologies.
Keywords:
Neisseria gonorrhoeaeNeisseria meningitidisNeisseria speciescommensalhost adaptationpathogenesis

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