Isolation and Identification of Campylobacter Species by Use of Selective Enrichment, Nucleic Acid Amplification Methods, and Gene Probes

Bacteria belonging to the genus Campylobacter are a well-recognized cause of food-related gastrointestinal infections. These infections are usually self-limiting and constitute substantial morbidity. Mortality, fortunately, is low. Deaths directly attributable to Campylobacter infections in the United States are estimated to be 120–360 cases per year. Detection and identification of these bacteria is of limited clinical importance, as the time needed for detection usually exceeds the duration of the symptoms of the disease. However, sometimes more significant sequelae of infection, such as the Guillain-Barr� syndrome (GBS), can be documented. The GBS is characterized by severe and sometimes fatal polyneuropathy. Owing to molecular mimicry between Campylobacter surface antigens and some human gangliosides, the immunological response elicited by the bacteria may eventually result in serious nerve degeneration as the consequence of autoimmune reactivity. Therefore, the availability of highly specific and sensitive methods for detection of antecedent Campylobacter infection for patients with GBS is mandatory and of clinical importance. High-quality tests may provide an early marker for a more protracted and severe course of the disease. Rapid methods may help to identify and treat GBS patient with a poor prognosis. Consequently, several molecular-diagnostic assays have been developed over the years in addition to conventional microbiological procedures.