Listeriosis

Definition

Listeriosis is an infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, primarily affecting the nervous system and often transmitted through contaminated food. It can lead to severe illness, particularly in pregnant women, newborns, elderly adults, and immunocompromised individuals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Listeria monocytogenes can grow at refrigeration temperatures, making it a concern for food storage.
2. The bacterium is a facultative anaerobe that thrives in diverse environments including soil, water, and decaying vegetation.
3. Listeriosis symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and neurological symptoms like headache and stiff neck.
4. Pregnant women are about ten times more likely than other people to get listeriosis.
5. Diagnosis often involves culturing blood or cerebrospinal fluid samples to detect Listeria monocytogenes.

Review Questions

• What types of environments can Listeria monocytogenes thrive in?
• Why are pregnant women at higher risk for listeriosis?
• What are common diagnostic methods for detecting Listeria monocytogenes?

Related terms

Facultative Anaerobe: An organism that can survive with or without oxygen.

Cerebrospinal Fluid: A clear fluid found in the brain and spinal cord used for diagnostic tests.

Neonatal Meningitis: A type of meningitis occurring in newborns often caused by bacterial infections like Listeria.