Septicemic plague

Definition

Septicemic plague is a severe bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis, characterized by the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. It is a life-threatening condition that can lead to septic shock and organ failure if not treated promptly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Septicemic plague can occur as a primary infection or secondary to bubonic plague.
2. Symptoms include fever, chills, extreme weakness, abdominal pain, bleeding into skin and other organs, and septic shock.
3. Yersinia pestis is transmitted through flea bites or direct contact with infected tissues or fluids.
4. Diagnosis typically involves blood cultures and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for Y. pestis DNA.
5. Immediate antibiotic treatment is crucial for survival; common antibiotics used include streptomycin, gentamicin, doxycycline, and ciprofloxacin.

Review Questions

• What bacterium causes septicemic plague?
• Describe two main symptoms of septicemic plague.
• What are the primary methods used for diagnosing septicemic plague?

Related terms

Bubonic Plague: A form of plague characterized by swollen lymph nodes (buboes).

Pneumonic Plague: A severe lung infection caused by Yersinia pestis.

Yersinia pestis:

The bacterium responsible for causing all forms of plague.