Proteus hauseri – Introduction, Morphology, Pathogenicity, Lab

Proteus hauseri– Introduction, Morphology, Pathogenicity, Lab Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, and Keynote

Introduction

Proteus hauseri belongs to the genus Proteus and is closely related to Proteus mirabilis. Although rarely isolated, it remains an important organism in clinical microbiology. Moreover, researchers consider it a separate species based on genetic and phenotypic characteristics. Notably, it was named to honor microbiologist Viktor Hauser. Additionally, its clinical significance remains under investigation. However, it can be isolated from human and environmental samples. Furthermore, its identification requires careful differentiation from other Proteus species. Thus, microbiologists must stay alert to its emerging presence.

Morphology

Proteus hauseri appears as a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium. Moreover, it demonstrates high motility due to peritrichous flagella. On solid media, it typically exhibits swarming motility. Also, colonies appear irregular, grayish, and sometimes confluent. Under the microscope, individual cells often elongate during active movement.

Additionally, it is non-spore forming and facultatively anaerobic. Consequently, its morphology aids early presumptive identification. However, confirmatory tests remain essential.

Pathogenicity

Although rare, Proteus hauseri can cause infections in compromised hosts. It may lead to urinary tract infections, particularly with catheter use. Furthermore, it may contribute to wound or respiratory infections. However, reports remain limited compared to Proteus mirabilis. Still, its potential to form biofilm increases its clinical relevance. Moreover, its swarming behavior can facilitate colonization. Therefore, clinicians must remain cautious when encountering this organism.

Lab Diagnosis

Initially, laboratories isolate P. hauseri on media like MacConkey or blood agar. Colonies often show lactose non-fermentation. Moreover, motility and swarming aid presumptive identification. Gram stain shows gram-negative rods. Additionally, oxidase-negative and catalase-positive reactions are common. API 20E or VITEK can aid identification. However, advanced techniques like MALDI-TOF or sequencing confirm species-level diagnosis. Therefore, accurate differentiation from other Proteus species requires a polyphasic approach.

Treatment

Treatment depends on susceptibility results, as resistance may vary. Generally, Proteus hauseri shows sensitivity to cephalosporins and aminoglycosides. However, resistance to ampicillin or tetracycline may occur. Therefore, clinicians should perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) before initiating therapy. Moreover, biofilm-associated infections may require combination therapy. Consequently, appropriate drug selection ensures better patient outcomes.

Prevention

Prevention includes maintaining strict hygiene and minimizing catheter use. Additionally, proper sterilization of instruments reduces infection risk. Hand hygiene remains the cornerstone in hospital settings. Furthermore, routine surveillance helps detect emerging strains. Clinicians should also report unusual isolates to guide local infection control. Importantly, antimicrobial stewardship prevents resistance development.

Keynotes

Proteus hauseri is a rare but emerging pathogen.
Exhibits swarming motility and biofilm formation.
Requires precise lab methods for species-level identification.
It shows variable resistance patterns and needs AST-based treatment.
Preventive strategies include hygiene and surveillance.

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