obsolete Fusobacterium infectious disease

Fusobacterium Infections: A Rare but Serious Condition

Fusobacterium infections are a rare and serious condition caused by the bacterium Fusobacterium, which is typically found in the oral cavity. These infections can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, subcutaneous tissues, head and neck, sinuses, ears, and bones.

Types of Fusobacterium Infections

There are several types of Fusobacterium infections, including:

• Necrobacillosis: An infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, usually affecting the head and neck.
• Otitis and Sinusitis: Infections of the ears and sinuses caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum.
• Lemierre's Syndrome: A rare and serious infection that affects the throat, neck, and face, often misdiagnosed as a common upper respiratory infection.
• Bacteremia: A condition where the bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to severe infections.

Symptoms of Fusobacterium Infections

The symptoms of Fusobacterium infections can vary depending on the type of infection. However, some common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Swelling and redness in the affected area
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Treatment and Prognosis

Fusobacterium infections are typically treated with antibiotics, but the prognosis can be poor if left untreated. In severe cases, the infection can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis, meningitis, or even death.

References:

• [1] Fusobacteria are anaerobic gram-negative rods that are a rare cause of serious human disease (Source: #10)
• [2] Two Fusobacterium species, F. nucleatum and F. necrophorum, are the most commonly isolated pathogens within this genus (Source: #10)
• [3] Lemierre syndrome is a rare, serious infection that is often misdiagnosed as a common upper respiratory infection (Source: #8)