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Neisserial colonisation of the pharynx
The British Journal of Venereal Diseases
|August 1, 1983
Summary
This study analyzed 3557 throat cultures, finding Neisseria meningitidis is the most common cause of pharyngeal Neisseria colonization. Pharyngeal gonorrhea prevalence was highest in homosexual men, though less critical to detect than other infection sites.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Neisserial species commonly colonize the pharynx, with varying prevalence and clinical significance.
- Understanding the spectrum of Neisseria colonization is crucial for diagnosing and managing infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and spectrum of Neisseria species colonizing the pharynx.
- To assess the prevalence of pharyngeal gonorrhea in different demographic groups.
- To compare the significance of pharyngeal gonorrhea detection with other infection sites.
Main Methods:
- Culturing 3557 throat exudates on modified New York City (MNYC) medium.
- Isolation and identification of oxidase-positive Gram-negative diplococci (GNDC).
- Statistical analysis to compare observed and expected frequencies of co-colonization.
Main Results:
- Neisseria meningitidis (74.2%) was the most prevalent GNDC, followed by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (20.3%) and Neisseria lactamica (3.7%).
- Co-colonization of N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis was significantly lower than expected (0.39% vs. 1.7%).
- Pharyngeal gonorrhea prevalence was 4.3% in all men, 11% in homosexual men, and 7.9% in women.
Conclusions:
- Neisseria meningitidis is the dominant Neisseria species colonizing the pharynx.
- Pharyngeal gonorrhea is most prevalent in homosexual men but detection is less critical than other sites.
- Public health strategies should prioritize screening at key infection sites over pharyngeal gonorrhea detection.