Coxiella burnetii
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 C. burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever
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| Coxiella burnetii (Derrick 1939) Philip 1948 |
Coxiella burnetii is a species of intracellular, pathogenic bacteria, and is the causative agent of Q fever. The genus Coxiella is morphologically similar to the rickettsia, but with a variety of genetic and physiological differences. C. burnetii are small Gram negative bacteria with two growth phases, as well as a spore form which lies idle in soil.[1] It can survive standard disinfectants, and is resistant to many other environmental changes.[2]
[edit] Pathogenesis
The ID50 (the dose need to infect 50% of experimental subjects) is one via inhalation—i.e. inhalation of one organism will yield disease in 50% of the population. Disease occurs in two states: An acute state presents with headaches, chills, and respiratoy symptoms, and an insidious chronic stage.
While most infections clear up spontaneously, treatment with tetracycline appears to reduce the symptomatic duration and reduce the likelihood of chronic infection.
[edit] References
- ^ Ryan KJ; Ray CG (editors) (2004). Sherris Medical Microbiology, 4th ed., McGraw Hill. ISBN 0-8385-8529-9.
- ^ Sankaran, Neeraja. (2000). "Coxiella burnetii". Microbes and people : an A-Z of microorganisms in our lives: 72. Phoenix, Arizona: The Oryx Press. ISBN 1-57356-217-3. "In contrast to other rickettsiae, which are highly sensitive and easily killed by chemical disinfectants and changes in their surroundings, C. burnetii is highly resistant" & Q fever. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Center for Infectious Diseases; Division of Viral and Rickettsial Diseases; Viral and Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch (2003-02013). Retrieved on May 24, 2006. "The organisms are resistant to heat, drying, and many common disinfectants."
