Chlamydophila pneumoniae

Definition

Chlamydophila pneumoniae is a species of bacteria that causes respiratory tract infections, including atypical pneumonia. It is an obligate intracellular pathogen affecting humans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chlamydophila pneumoniae primarily causes mild to moderate respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
2. Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets from person to person.
3. Infections are often asymptomatic or present with non-specific symptoms like sore throat, cough, and low-grade fever.
4. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through serological tests or PCR (polymerase chain reaction).
5. Treatment usually involves macrolide antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline.

Review Questions

Related terms

Mycoplasma pneumoniae:

A bacterium causing atypical pneumonia similar to Chlamydophila pneumoniae but without a cell wall.

Legionella pneumophila:

A bacterium responsible for Legionnaires' disease, another form of atypical bacterial pneumonia.

Macrolide Antibiotics: A class of antibiotics effective against respiratory pathogens like Chlamydophila pneumoniae, including drugs like azithromycin and erythromycin.