Fusobacterial Infections

Abstract

Anaerobic, Gram-negative bacilli of the genus Fusobacterium have been implicated in the etiology, pathophysiology, and complications of several diseases, including periodontal diseases, Lemicrre‘s syndrome, tropical skin ulcers, and intraamniotic infections (IAI). As part of the normal flora of the oral cavity, female genital tract, and gastrointestinal tract, fusobacteria have a number of natural entry points to cause disease. F. nucleatum plays a critical role in the development of periodontal diseases by acting as a microbial bridge between early and late (pathogenic) colonizers of the oral tissues. F. necrophorum is the causative agent of Lemierre‘s syndrome, a rare infection that can have devastating effects on the joints, lungs, and central nervous system. A variety of fusobacteria have been implicated in the development of tropical skin ulcers, which continue to cause significant debility in regions of the tropics. Fusobacteria have been associated with a significant proportion of preterm low birth weight infants due to IAI. Morbidity and mortality may result from IAI. and the incidence of IAI has not decreased in recent years. Typically, antimicrobial drugs provide effective treatment of fusobacterial infections, which can affect people of all age groups.