Shape and Size

rod-shaped,

Genome Information

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae str. Fujisawa, Ref Seq: NC_015601.1, DNA circular, Size 1.79(Mb), GC% 36.6, Protein 1661, rRNA 21, tRNA 55, Gene 1747 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/genome/2104

Food Source

ingestion of contaminated food products

Pathological Factor

The virulence of E. rhusiopathiae is associated, with resistance to phagocytosis by polymorphonuclear leukocytes, but even if phagocytized, it is able to replicate intracellularly. The antiphagocytic ability of this organism likely results from its possession of a capsule. Other virulence factors include enzymes, such as neuraminidase and hyaluronidase and surface proteins.

Disease

Erysipeloid, Septicaemia and endocarditis. Miscellaneous infections; chronic arthritis, cerebral infection, osseous necrosis

Symptoms

Focal infections such as brain abscess, meningitis, epidural abscess, paravertebral abscess, endophthalmitis, pneumonia, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, prosthetic joint infection, necrotizing fasciitis, liver abscess, intra-abdominal abscess, and peritonitis have also been reported

Affected Body Organs

hand or fingers, peculiar aortic valve of heart, brain, liver