title: Branhamella catarrhalis: an unappreciated pulmonary pathogen.
abstract: Branhamella catarrhalis is being increasingly identified as an important pulmonary pathogen, particularly in elderly patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. This gram-negative diplococcus can readily be isolated and detected in respiratory secretions. Laboratory identification requires care and beta-lactamase testing. Recognition of lower respiratory tract disease caused by B. catarrhalis is rewarding, since safe and effective therapy exists to treat these patients.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000502:physiology; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D009346:Neisseriaceae / Q000187:drug effects / Q000201:enzymology / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D001618:beta-Lactamases / Q000096:biosynthesis
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D001618:beta-Lactamases