Streptobacillus Moniliformis Infections and Zoonotic Pathogenesis
Summary
Streptobacillus moniliformis is a pleomorphic, Gram-negative bacillus and the principal agent of rat-bite fever, a systemic zoonotic illness characterised by fever, rash and migratory arthritis. Transmission typically occurs through rodent bites, scratches or contact with excreta, but indirect exposure via contaminated materials is increasingly recognised. Once in the human host, the bacterium adheres to endothelial cells and may elicit a robust inflammatory response, with clinical manifestations ranging from self-limiting fever to severe complications such as endocarditis, osteomyelitis, discitis and sepsis. The global rise in pet-rodent ownership and laboratory exposure has broadened the epidemiology beyond traditional settings, emphasising the need for heightened clinical vigilance and rapid diagnostics. Advances in molecular assays, serological testing and imaging have improved detection, while antibiotic regimens, notably penicillin and cephalosporins, remain the cornerstone of therapy. Insight into virulence factors, including adhesins and immune-evasion mechanisms, is shaping future preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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Streptobacillus Moniliformis Infections and Zoonotic Pathogenesis publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in streptobacillus moniliformis infections and zoonotic pathogenesis across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Zoonosis: An infectious disease transmitted from animals to humans.
Pleomorphic: The ability of an organism to alter its shape or size in response to environmental conditions.
Serology: The study and measurement of antibodies in blood serum used to diagnose infections.
Endocarditis: Inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, often due to bacterial infection.
Osteomyelitis: Infection of bone tissue, potentially leading to destruction of bone structure.
Discitis: Inflammation of the intervertebral disc space, often caused by infection.
References
- Streptobacillus moniliformis and IgM and IgG Immune Response in Patient with Endocarditis - Volume 30, Number 3—March 2024 - Emerging Infectious Diseases journal - CDC. Emerging Infectious Diseases (2024).
- Rat-Bite Fever due to the genus Streptobacillus. AIMS Microbiology (2024).
- Rat bite fever with osteomyelitis and discitis: case report and literature review. BMC Infectious Diseases (2021).
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