Ureaplasma

Definition

Ureaplasma is a genus of bacteria belonging to the family Mycoplasmataceae. These bacteria lack a cell wall and are part of the normal human urogenital flora but can cause infections in immunocompromised individuals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ureaplasma species are unique among Gram-positive bacteria because they do not possess a cell wall.
2. They are known for their ability to hydrolyze urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, which is a key diagnostic feature.
3. Commonly found in the human respiratory and urogenital tracts, Ureaplasma can be opportunistic pathogens.
4. Infections caused by Ureaplasma include urethritis, chorioamnionitis, and neonatal infections such as pneumonia or meningitis.
5. Treatment typically involves antibiotics like macrolides or tetracyclines since beta-lactams are ineffective due to the lack of a cell wall.

Review Questions

Related terms

Mycoplasma:

A genus of bacteria that also lacks a cell wall and is related to Ureaplasma.

Gram-Positive Bacteria: Bacteria that have thick peptidoglycan layers in their cell walls but Ureaplasma lack this structure.

Opportunistic Pathogen: Organisms that cause disease primarily when host defenses are compromised, such as Ureaplasma.