From the Guidelines
Fusobacterium necrophorum infections most commonly originate from the oropharynx, particularly the tonsils, and can also be sourced from dental infections, periodontal disease, and other sites with low-oxygen environments. The most frequent sources of Fusobacterium necrophorum infection include:
- Tonsillar infections
- Pharyngitis
- Dental infections
- Periodontal disease These infections can serve as the primary reservoir for this anaerobic bacterium, which can then spread through the bloodstream or by direct extension to cause more serious conditions like Lemierre's syndrome, lung abscesses, or metastatic infections 1. F. necrophorum can also enter the body through breaks in mucous membranes following trauma to the oropharynx or through aspiration of oropharyngeal secretions into the lungs. In some cases, infections may arise from the gastrointestinal tract, female genital tract, or skin wounds, particularly those contaminated with soil or fecal matter 1. People with compromised immune systems, those with poor oral hygiene, and adolescents and young adults are particularly susceptible to these infections. Understanding these sources is important for prevention through good oral hygiene and prompt treatment of throat infections. Recent data suggest that Fusobacterium necrophorum is implicated in approximately 10% to 20% of endemic pharyngitis cases in adolescents, and it has also been implicated as a cause of Lemierre syndrome, a rare and life-threatening condition 1.
From the Research
Sources of Fusobacterium necrophorum Infection
- Fusobacterium necrophorum is a normal inhabitant of the alimentary tract of animals and humans 2, 3
- The organism can cause numerous necrotic conditions, including bovine hepatic abscesses, ruminant foot abscesses, and human oral infections 2
- F. necrophorum is encountered frequently in mixed infections, and synergisms between F. necrophorum and other pathogens may play an important role in infection 2
- The bacterium can be isolated from various clinical specimens, including blood cultures, and is associated with hematologic malignancy and head and neck infections 4
- F. necrophorum is a cause of pharyngotonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, and the Lemierre Syndrome, as well as other significant infections 5
Transmission and Risk Factors
- The exact transmission route of F. necrophorum is not well defined, but it is believed to be an opportunistic pathogen that takes advantage of compromised host defenses 2, 3
- Risk factors for F. necrophorum infection may include ruminal acidosis and rumenitis complex in grain-fed cattle, as well as other underlying health conditions in humans 3
- The bacterium can be found in the environment, particularly in areas with animal husbandry, and may be transmitted through contact with contaminated soil, water, or animals 2, 3
Clinical Manifestations
- F. necrophorum infections can manifest as various clinical conditions, including necrobacillosis, liver abscesses, foot rot, and oral infections 2, 3, 5
- The bacterium can cause significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in vulnerable populations such as those with underlying health conditions or immunocompromised individuals 4, 5