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Polymicrobial infections with specific Actinomyces and related organisms, using the current taxonomy

Eija Könönen1

  • 1Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.

Journal of Oral Microbiology
|May 20, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Many former Actinomyces species are now in new genera like Gleimia and Schaalia. Understanding their role in polymicrobial infections is key for better patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Taxonomy

Background:

  • Actinomyces organisms, typically found on mucosal surfaces, are increasingly implicated in polymicrobial infections.
  • Recent reclassifications have moved several Actinomyces species into new genera, including Gleimia, Schaalia, and Winkia.
  • The clinical significance of these organisms in polymicrobial settings is often underestimated due to their slow growth and lack of distinct clinical features.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the emerging role of Actinomyces and related genera in human polymicrobial infections.
  • To highlight specific species and their associated disease spectrums.
  • To emphasize the importance of recognizing these pathogens for improved patient management.

Main Methods:

  • Narrative review of existing literature.
  • Synthesis of information on Actinomyces and related genera (Bowdeniella, Gleimia, Pauljensenia, Schaalia, Winkia).
  • Identification of species involved in specific human infections.

Main Results:

  • Commonly implicated species include Actinomyces israelii, Schaalia meyeri, Schaalia odontolytica, Gleimia europaea, Schaalia turicensis, and Winkia neuii.
  • Specific associations include A. graevenitzii in pulmonary infections, S. meyeri in brain abscesses, S. turicensis in skin infections, G. europaea in necrotizing fasciitis, and W. neuii in device-related infections.
  • Many former Actinomyces species now reside in newly defined genera.

Conclusions:

  • Increased awareness of the clinical relevance of Actinomyces and related species in polymicrobial infections is crucial.
  • Recognizing these pathogens can lead to improved diagnosis and patient care outcomes.
  • Further research into novel species and their pathogenic potential is warranted.
Keywords:
ActinomycesGleimiaSchaaliaWinkiaclinical relevancecommensalpathogenpolymicrobial infectiontaxonomy

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