Micro| Vibrio Species

3.20 Vibrio Species Microbiology review for the USMLE Step 1 Exam Vibrio species are gram negative comma-shaped rods with a single flagellum, allowing them to move quickly Two main species that cause human infections: Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio vulnificus Vibrio cholerae causes foodborne disease called cholera through cholera toxin secretion, spread through the fecal-oral route in developing countries Cholera is characterized by watery, mucinous diarrhea, if left untreated can lead to hypovolemic shock and high mortality Treatment involves rapid rehydration and electrolyte replacement, antibiotics may be used for severe cases Vibrio vulnificus causes severe skin infections acquired through exposure of open wounds in marine environments Symptoms include cellulitis, swelling, blister formation, ulceration, and hemorrhagic bullae