Neisseria gonorrhoeae
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Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a species of Gram-negative bacteria responsible for the disease gonorrhoea. Neisseria species of bacteria are highly fastidious gram-negative cocci, that is, they require special nutrients to survive. These cocci typically appear in pairs (diplococci). Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease. Symptoms include a purulent (or pus-like) discharge from the genitals which may be foul smelling, a burning sensation during urination and conjunctivitis commonly in neonatal infection, also occasionally in adults. Neisseria is usually isolated on a Modified Thayer-Martin culture plate. This plate has antibiotics and nutrients which not only facilitate the growth of Neisseria species, but inhibit the growth of Gram-positive organisms and most bacilli. Further testing to differentiate the species usually includes an oxidase test which will be positive for Neiserria gonorrhoeae, and testing with the carbohydrates lactose, sucrose, and glucose. N. gonorrhoeae will only oxidize (that is, utilize) the glucose.
Since N. gonorrhoeae , also called Gonococci, is resistant to the penicillin family, ceftriaxone (a 3rd generation cephalosporin) is often used now.
Patients should also be tested for Chlamydia bacteria, since co-infection is frequent.
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