| Description | Fusobacterium necrophorum is a gram-negative, anaerobic bacterium that thrives in a temperature range of 20-40°C, falling under the category of mesophiles. Its metabolism is characterized as chemoheterotrophic, relying on the breakdown of organic compounds for energy production, which is achieved through the process of fermentation. This microbe is unique in that it can produce energy through the reduction of sulfur compounds. F. necrophorum exhibits a fusiform shape, typically measuring between 1-5 μm in length and 0.5-1.5 μm in width. It is a ubiquitous microbe, capable of inhabiting various body sites, including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts, as well as the skin and soft tissues. As an obligate anaerobe, F. necrophorum requires a low-oxygen environment to survive, making it well adapted to the anaerobic niches within the human body. In fact, it can tolerate extremely low oxygen levels, often found in areas distant from the lungs and other oxygen-rich regions. This microbe plays a crucial role in the development of various diseases, particularly peritonsillar abscess (quinsy), a complication of tonsillitis. It can also contribute to respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchopneumonia, and has been linked to inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease. In addition to its involvement in human disease, F. necrophorum has been found in the oral cavities of animals, highlighting its potential role in interspecies transmission. Furthermore, research has shown that the bacterium's ability to adhere to host cells and resist phagocytosis allows it to evade the host's immune system, contributing to its pathogenic capabilities. |
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