Klebsiella pneumoniae
Klebsiella pneumoniae: A Stealthy Pathogen
Description
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative bacterium commonly found in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urinary tracts of humans. It is an opportunistic pathogen, exploiting weakened immune systems to cause a range of infections.
Associated Diseases
K. pneumoniae is responsible for a diverse spectrum of infections, including:
- Pneumonia: Severe lung infection, especially in hospitalized patients
- Bloodstream infections (bacteremia): Can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Painful and potentially damaging to the kidneys
- Wound infections: Can complicate surgical procedures or delay wound healing
- Meningitis: Rare but potentially fatal infection of the brain and spinal cord
Did you Know ?
K. pneumoniae is a global threat, estimated to cause over 200,000 infections and 50,000 deaths annually.
