Who discovered melioidosis?
Background and History The pathologist Alfred Whitmore and his assistant C. S. Krishnaswami first described melioidosis as a “glanders-like” disease among morphia addicts in Rangoon, Burma, in 1911 (474, 475).
What is melioidosis disease?
Melioidosis, also known as Whitmore’s disease, is an uncommon bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. The disease affects humans and animals. Individuals acquire the bacteria through direct contact with contaminated soil and surface waters.
What are the symptoms of melioidosis?
Symptoms of disseminated melioidosis infection include fever, weight loss, stomach or chest pain, muscle or joint pain, headache, and seizures. localised infections may present with pain, localised swelling, skin infection, ulceration, and abscess formation (with associated fever and muscle aches and pains).
Which disease is caused by P pseudomallei?
Melioidosis, also called Whitmore’s disease, is an infectious disease that can infect humans or animals. The disease is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei.
How is melioidosis prevented?
To prevent melioidosis, people should take the following measures:
- Avoid contact with contaminated soil.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing or footwear when participating in activities with possible contact with soil or water, e.g. use gloves and wear boots.
- Wash or shower after exposure to contaminated water or soil.
How is melioidosis spread?
Humans and animals are believed to acquire the infection by inhalation of contaminated dust or water droplets, ingestion of contaminated water, and ingestion of soil-contaminated food or other contact with contaminated soil, especially through skin abrasions.
Who is at risk for melioidosis?
Risk factors for invasive melioidosis include diabetes, excessive alcohol use, chronic renal disease, chronic lung disease (such as cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), thalassemia, and malignancy or other non-HIV-related immune suppression.
What is the treatment for melioidosis?
The main therapeutic options for melioidosis include beta-lactams (eg, ceftazidime, certain beta-lactam-beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations), carbapenems, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), and doxycycline, depending on the phase of treatment.