Morganella morganii is a type of bacterium commonly found in various natural environments, including soil and water. It also frequently resides within the intestinal tracts of humans and a wide range of animals. While generally present without causing issues, understanding its characteristics is helpful for comprehending its potential impact on health.
Understanding Morganella morganii
Morganella morganii is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family. It is often considered a commensal organism, meaning it can live in the body, particularly in the gut, without typically causing harm.
Despite its common presence, Morganella morganii is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen. This classification indicates that it usually only causes infections when specific conditions allow it to, such as when a person’s immune system is weakened or when the bacteria enter parts of the body where they do not normally reside. Such conditions can include surgical procedures or the presence of underlying health issues.
When Morganella morganii Causes Illness
When conditions are favorable, Morganella morganii can cause a range of infections, particularly in hospitalized patients or those with compromised immune systems. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections caused by this bacterium, with symptoms like fever, painful urination, and abdominal or flank pain.
Wound infections, including those occurring after surgery, represent another significant type of illness caused by Morganella morganii. These can involve skin and soft tissues, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pus formation. Bloodstream infections are serious manifestations that can lead to widespread inflammation.
Less commonly, Morganella morganii can be implicated in respiratory infections like pneumonia, central nervous system infections such as meningitis, and other localized infections. These infections often occur in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
Managing Morganella morganii Infections
Diagnosing Morganella morganii infections involves laboratory tests, including cultures of affected bodily fluids or tissues. These cultures identify the specific bacteria present. Subsequent antibiotic susceptibility testing determines which medications will be most effective against the identified strain.
Treatment primarily relies on antibiotics, but the choice of medication is influenced by the bacterium’s susceptibility profile. Morganella morganii can exhibit intrinsic resistance to certain antibiotics, such as penicillin and some first and second-generation cephalosporins. Furthermore, some strains have acquired resistance to a broader range of antibiotics, including some third-generation cephalosporins, posing challenges for effective treatment.
Carbapenems, certain third and fourth-generation cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and aminoglycosides are often considered for treatment, with specific choices guided by susceptibility results. In severe cases, particularly with bloodstream infections, combination antibiotic therapy might be used, and source control measures like draining abscesses or removing infected medical devices may be necessary.
Reducing the Risk of Infection
Preventing Morganella morganii infections involves adopting practical hygiene measures and implementing effective infection control practices. Regular handwashing with soap and water is a fundamental step in reducing the spread of many types of bacteria, including Morganella morganii. Proper care of wounds, ensuring they are clean and covered, helps prevent the bacteria from entering the body through breaks in the skin.
In healthcare environments, stringent infection control protocols are important to minimize the risk of transmission. These protocols include thorough sterilization of medical equipment and appropriate management of devices like catheters, which can be entry points for infection. Awareness and adherence to these practices by both individuals and healthcare providers contribute to reducing the incidence of infections caused by Morganella morganii.