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Abstract:
Examination of faecal specimens for the presence of Yersinia spp. during a 1-year period yielded isolations from 3.5% of patients. Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp. and Shigella spp. were isolated from 2.5%, 2.8% and 0.34% of patients respectively. Most isolates belonged to Y. enterocolitica biotype 1 (53%) and Y. frederikseni (39%). The most frequently encountered serotypable strains were serotypes O 5.27 and O 6.30. Serotype O 3, the commonly recognised pathogenic strain, was not isolated in this survey. A strong association between Yersinia excretion and the age group 1-14 years was demonstrated. Although biotype-1 strains and Y. frederikseni have not previously been thought to be pathogenic, clinical significance could be attributed to the presence of Yersinia spp. in almost 90% of patients aged 15 years or more, and in over 50% of patients in the younger age groups.
Insights
Yersinia species were found in 3.5% of patients, with Y. enterocolitica biotype 1 and Y. frederikseni being most common. Clinical significance is suggested, especially in older age groups.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Clinical Microbiology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Yersinia species are known enteric pathogens.
- The prevalence and clinical significance of certain Yersinia species, including Y. enterocolitica biotype 1 and Y. frederikseni, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Yersinia species in faecal specimens.
- To identify the most common Yersinia species and serotypes.
- To assess the clinical significance of Yersinia infections, particularly in relation to age.
Main Methods:
- Faecal specimens were collected over a 1-year period.
- Isolation and identification of Yersinia species were performed.
- Serotyping of Yersinia isolates was conducted.
Main Results:
- Yersinia species were isolated from 3.5% of patients.
- Y. enterocolitica biotype 1 (53%) and Y. frederikseni (39%) were the predominant isolates.
- Serotypes O 5.27 and O 6.30 were most frequently encountered; the common pathogenic strain O 3 was not found.
- Yersinia excretion showed a strong association with the 1-14 years age group.
- Clinical significance was suggested for Yersinia spp. in nearly 90% of patients aged 15+ and over 50% in younger groups.
Conclusions:
- Yersinia species, including previously less-considered strains like Y. enterocolitica biotype 1 and Y. frederikseni, are present in a notable percentage of patients.
- Despite the absence of serotype O 3, the high prevalence in certain age groups suggests potential clinical importance.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the pathogenicity and clinical impact of these Yersinia strains.