Atypical bacteria are a diverse group of bacteria that do not stain well with Gram staining and often lack the characteristics of typical bacterial cell walls. They include organisms like Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, and Legionella.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Atypical bacteria often require specialized growth media and conditions for cultivation.
They can cause respiratory infections, including atypical pneumonia, which is not caused by the common pathogens associated with typical pneumonia.
Mycoplasma species lack a cell wall entirely, making them resistant to antibiotics like penicillin that target cell wall synthesis.
Chlamydia species have a unique developmental cycle involving elementary bodies and reticulate bodies.
Legionella pneumophila is commonly found in water systems and can lead to Legionnaires' disease.