It involves the use of plastic strips consisting of 20 small wells containing dehydrated media components; the bacterium to be tested is suspended in sterile saline and added to each well, then the strip is incubated for 16-24 hours and the color reactions are noted as either positive or negative. The test results are then entered into a computer program identify the bacterium. (Ibid.) Treatment

The standard treatment of Proteus vulgaris is through a course of antibiotics. However, it should be noted that P. vulgaris (and P. penneri) are more difficult to treat than the commonly occurring Proteus specie -- Proteus mirabilis. Both these strains (P. vulgaris and P. penneri) are resistant to ampicillin and first-generation cephalosporins. However, antibiotic drugs such as Imipenem, fourth-generation cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, TMP/SMZ, and quinolones have been found to be fairly effective against Proteus vulgaris (Gonzales et. al. 2006)

As with other antibiotics, care must be taken against hypersensitive reactions, especially in patients with a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. In addition, antibiotic therapy requires constant observation for signs of overgrowth of organisms, including fungi. Prolonged treatment also requires periodic check for organ system dysfunction such as the renal, hepatic systems, particularly in infants (Ibid.)

Prevention

Although Proteus vulgaris infection is rare, prevention is always better than cure. For preventing cystitis, it is important to practice proper toilet hygiene. Women and girls must dry themselves from front to back, towards the anus, to avoid leading bacteria from their intestine into their urethra. It is advisable to drink sufficiently, so the bladder remains flushed; people who do not urinate for long periods are likely to suffer from UTI; hence one should urinate at least every three hours. Extra care in hospital hygiene practices would also reduce the spread of Proteus vulgaris infection that are acquired from hospitals. (Macfarlane and Klenerman, 2007)

Outline

Description / Definition

Proteus vulgaris is briefly defined as a gram negative bacterium that is usually found in the intestinal tracts of animals, which can cause urinary tract and wound infections.

History of its Discovery timeline of the discovery of the bacterium is presented. It was first discovered by a German microbiologist in 1885. In later research, P. vulgaris has been seperated into further sub-groups.

Transmission

Modes of transmission have been discussed....

It is noted that P. vulgaris is rarely present in the fecal matter but can be spread by direct contact, hospital environment, and urethral insertions.
Diagnosis

Typical diagnosis of P. vulgaris, which is usually done through culture tests in the laboratory has been described.

Treatment

Treatment of Proteus vulgaris infection -- usually carried out through antibiotic drugs as well as the drugs that are most effective in its treatment along with the precautions have been listed.

Prevention:

Preventive measures that minimize the risk of diseases caused by P. vulgaris have been described.