Haemophilus parainfluenzae is a species of Haemophilus.
| Haemophilus parainfluenzae | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Bacteria |
| Phylum: | Pseudomonadota |
| Class: | Gammaproteobacteria |
| Order: | Pasteurellales |
| Family: | Pasteurellaceae |
| Genus: | Haemophilus |
| Species: | H. parainfluenzae |
| Binomial name | |
| Haemophilus parainfluenzae Rivers 1922 (Approved Lists 1980)[1] | |
It is one of the HACEK organisms.[2]H. parainfluenzae is an opportunistic pathogen that has been associated with endocarditis, bronchitis, otitis, conjunctivitis, pneumonia, abscesses and genital tract infections.
Natural genetic transformation
H. parainfluenzae biotypes I and II are capable of natural genetic transformation.[3] Natural genetic transformation is a bacterial adaptation for DNA transfer. In order for a bacterium to bind, take up and recombine exogenous DNA into its genome it must enter a special physiological state termed natural competence. In H. parainfluenzae, competence is induced during the late stationary phase of growth.[3] Natural DNA transformation may play a major role in the exchange of genetic information among H. parainfluenzae isolates.
Treatment
Acute H. parainfluenzae infections must be treated with antibiotics. Beta-lactam agents such as amoxicillin and ampicillin are antibiotics that are effective against H. parainfluenzae. The Duration of Antibiotic Therapy depends on the severity of the infection. In 40% of infective endocarditis cases caused by H. parainfluenzae, the best treatment is a valve replacement.[4]