Aeromonas

MICROBIOLOGY

  • Gram-negative bacillus, a halophilic, facultative anaerobe that is a Proteobacterium (class Gammaproteobacteria).
  • A ubiquitous organism, occurring in both fresh and brackish waters, usually in warmer climates.
    • Oxidase positive but lactose-fermenting, motile with flagella (Figure).
      • Cytochrome oxidase, catalase and indole positive.
      • Able to ferment maltose, D-galactose and trehalose.
    • It may contaminate food, especially fish.
  • A. hydrophila is the most common and important human pathogen, but others seen frequently include A. caviae and A. veronii biovar sobria. Of 14 described species, all have been linked to human infection.
    • A. caviae and A. veronii biovar sobria leading Aeromonas spp. causing travelers diarrhea.
    • A. dhakensis: described as causing diarrhea in children (2002), may be misidentified in the lab as A. hydrophila, A. veronii, or A. caviae by commercial systems.

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Last updated: December 11, 2022