How Do You Spell BACILLUS MALLEI?

1. Bacillus mallei is a gram-negative, non-motile, rod-shaped bacterium that belongs to the genus Bacillus. It is characterized by its ability to cause glanders, a highly contagious and often fatal disease primarily affecting horses and other equines.

   The bacterium is known for its heightened virulence and ability to infect not only domestic animals but also humans. It is typically transmitted through close contact with infected animals, mainly via inhalation of respiratory droplets or direct contact with contaminated fluids or tissues. Once inside the body, Bacillus mallei can invade various organs and systems, leading to severe symptoms such as pneumonia, skin ulcers, fever, and respiratory distress.

   Bacillus mallei is endemic in certain parts of the world, particularly in regions with horse-based economies or where animal trade is prevalent. The eradication of this bacterium poses several challenges due to its ability to survive in the environment as well as its potential for deliberate use as a bioweapon. Therefore, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) classifies Bacillus mallei as a List B disease agent.

   The diagnosis of glanders caused by Bacillus mallei is accomplished through specialized laboratory techniques, including culture isolation and molecular identification. Treatment mainly involves the administration of antibiotic regimens, although the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has been reported. Vaccines are available for horses, contributing to the prevention and control of glanders outbreaks in equine populations.

   In summary, Bacillus mallei is a highly pathogenic bacterium responsible for the development of glanders, a contagious and potentially fatal disease affecting horses and other animals, including humans.

2. A curved b. thicker and shorter than the tubercle b.; the cause of glanders, discovered by Loeffler and Schutz in 1882.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for BACILLUS MALLEI

The word "Bacillus mallei" has Latin etymology.

- Bacillus: The term "bacillus" comes from the Latin word "bacillum", which means "small staff" or "little rod". It was chosen to describe a group of microorganisms that are rod-shaped or have a cylindrical shape.

- Mallei: The term "mallei" is derived from the Latin word "malleus", which means "hammer". It refers to the bacterium's ability to cause destructive lesions and abscesses in infected animals, particularly horses. Hence, the name "mallei" was given to this particular species of bacillus due to its association with the pathological effects it can cause in horses.

Overall, "Bacillus mallei" can be translated as "hammer-shaped rod", reflecting the shape of the bacterium and its destructive nature.