Emergence of Related Nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae Biotype mitis Strains in Western Europe
Author Information
Author(s): Guido Funke, Martin Altwegg, Lars Frommelt, Alexander von Graevenitz
Primary Institution: University of Zurich
Hypothesis
Nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae strains are present in Western Europe and may be associated with specific populations.
Conclusion
The study found that nontoxigenic C. diphtheriae biotype mitis strains were isolated from various patient groups in Switzerland, Germany, and France, indicating their emergence in these regions.
Supporting Evidence
- 17 isolates of C. diphtheriae biotype mitis were recovered from patients in Switzerland, Germany, and France.
- Most isolates were found in patients with skin or subcutaneous infections.
- Isolates were often found with other bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.
- All isolates had identical antimicrobial susceptibility patterns except for tetracycline resistance.
Takeaway
Doctors found a type of bacteria that usually doesn't make people sick in some patients in Europe, especially those who use drugs or have joint problems.
Methodology
Isolates were identified using polymerase chain reaction techniques and ribotyping, and antimicrobial susceptibility was tested.
Limitations
The frequency of these strains in the population cannot be estimated due to the lack of mandatory submission to reference laboratories.
Participant Demographics
Participants included injecting drug users, homeless persons, prisoners, and elderly orthopedic patients.
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