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Chlamydia pneumoniae: cause of respiratory infections and chronic diseases
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Recent research suggests that Chlamydia pneumoniae may also be involved in chronic diseases such as asthma or even cardiovascular disease. In addition, there is a link between Chlamydia pneumoniae and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The precise mechanisms remain under investigation, but studies have already shown that Chlamydia pneumoniae can infect the central nervous system (CNS) through pathways such as the olfactory and trigeminal nerves. This can lead to the accumulation of amyloid plaques, which are characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease.
Also read: These are the 13 most common bacterial infections
Chlamydia pneumoniae is not a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The confusion arises because “chlamydia” is often associated with Chlamydia trachomatis, which is an STD. Chlamydia pneumoniae and Chlamydia trachomatis are different species of the same bacterial genus, but cause different types of infections and are transmitted in different ways. Also read: What are the symptoms of chlamydia? |
Infection
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Transmission of Chlamydia pneumoniae occurs via respiratory droplets spread by the coughing or sneezing of an infected person. People can also get sick if they touch something with droplets from a sick person on it and then touch their mouth or nose. Once in the body, the bacteria invade the cells of the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and typical respiratory symptoms.
People who are with someone with a C. pneumoniae infection for a short time usually do not become ill. However, it is common for the bacteria to spread between people who live together. C. pneumoniae infections usually have a long incubation period (the time between inhaling the bacteria and developing symptoms). Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 weeks after exposure.
The bacterium is unique in its ability to cause repeated infections in individuals, which can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Common symptoms of an infection caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae include a persistent cough, sore throat, fatigue and fever. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by testing respiratory tract secretions (throat or nasal swap) or by blood tests to detect antibodies.
An infection with C. pneumoniae is usually a mild illness. However, serious complications can occur that require care or treatment in a hospital, such as:
C. pneumoniae can also cause a chronic infection, which could contribute to chronic conditions such as asthma, arthritis and atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque in arteries).
Treatment and prevention
The standard treatment for infections caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae consists of antibiotics. Since the bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets, good hygiene is important. Wash your hands regularly, sneeze and cough into the crook of your elbow and use paper tissues that you throw in the trash afterwards.
Also read: What is best to disinfect your hands: soap or disinfectant gel?
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://www.nature.com
Last updated: April 2024
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Tags: Chlamydia pneumoniae respiratory infections chronic diseases
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