View source for Listeriosis pathophysiology

{{Listeriosis}}
{{CMG}}

==Overview==

==Pathogenesis==
''L monocytogenes'' is ubiquitous in the environment. The main route of acquisition of ''Listeria'' is through the ingestion of contaminated food products. ''Listeria'' has been isolated from raw meat, dairy products, vegetables, and seafood. Soft cheeses and unpasteurized milk are potential dangers, however post-[[pasteurization]] outbreaks of infection from dairy have been from pasteurized milk.<ref name=Sherris/>

There are four distinct clinical syndromes:
:*Infection in pregnancy: ''Listeria'' can proliferate asymptomatically in the vagina and uterus. If the mother becomes symptomatic, it is usually in the third trimester. Symptoms include [[fever]], [[myalgia]]s, [[arthralgias]] and [[headache]]. Abortion, stillbirth and preterm labor are complications of GU infection.
:*Neonatal infection (granulomatosis infantisepticum): There are two forms. One, an early-onset [[sepsis]], with ''Listeria'' acquired in utero, results in premature birth. ''Listeria'' can be isolated in the [[placenta]], [[blood]], [[meconium]], [[nose]], [[ear]]s, and [[throat]]. Another, late-onset meningitis is acquired through vaginal transmission, although it also has been reported with caesarean deliveries.
:*[[Central nervous system|CNS]] infection: ''Listeria'' has a predilection for the brain [[parenchyma]], especially the [[brain stem]], and the [[meninges]]. Mental status changes are common. Seizures occur in at least 25% of patients. Cranial nerve palsies, [[encephalitis]], [[meningitis]], [[meningoencephalitis]] and [[abscess]]es can all occur.
:*[[Gastroenteritis]]: ''L monocytogenes'' can produce food-borne diarrheal disease, which typically is noninvasive. The median incubation period is 1-2 days, with diarrhea lasting anywhere from 1-3 days. Patients present with fever, muscle aches, gastrointestinal nausea or diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions.

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

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[[Category:Disease]]
[[Category:Infectious disease]]