The role of chlamydia in the pathogenesis of pulmonary emphysema

Abstract

Chlamydia pneumoniae has been detected in atherosclerotic plaques by various means. Chlamydiae are able to cause persistent infections. Serologically elevated antibody titers are found in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In atherosclerosis and pulmonary emphysema, inflammatory reactions can be seen by means of light microscopy. Specimens from patients with obliterative arteriosclerosis undergoing thrombendarteriectomy and with advanced emphysema undergoing lung volume reduction surgery were examined using scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy, and using immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies and antiserum against chlamydiae. SEM shows spherical bodies (SBs) with a diameter from 0.3 microm to 0.6 microm on the surface of the alveoli and bronchioles, as well as in atherosclerotic plaques. In atherosclerosis and emphysema, SBs reveal a double membrane, adherence to collagen fibers, tissue destruction, as well as intracellular and interstitial localization in TEM. They show in parts a densely packed central structure. SBs are seen both in alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency emphysema and smoker's emphysema. Using immunofluorescence microscopy, spots are seen in corresponding distributions to the SBs. Morphological findings are typical for aberrant chlamydiae seen in persistent infections. Chronic infection and bacterial colonization associated with progressive disease seems to be relevant not only in atherosclerosis but also in pulmonary emphysema.

Chlamydophila pneumoniae

“…Chronic C. pneumoniae infection has been found to be common in cases of chronic bronchitis, and could contribute to disease progression through a toxic effect on bronchial epithelial cells, impairing ciliary function, and increasing chronic inflammation via proinflammatory cytokine production [16,17]. The possibility of chronic colonization with C. pneumoniae in patients with COPD is supported by serology, electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry [18,19]. Chronic colonization with C. pneumoniae is significantly associated with more severe functional impairment, and colonization is associated with a greater propensity to develop acute exacerbations [20].…”

Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy as alternative methods of early identification of pathogens causing catheter-related bloodstream infections of patients in ICU

“…Moreover, it facilitated the knowledge and understanding of the processes of biofilm formation by microorganisms on the surfaces of materials used in medicine [30]. By the use of this diagnostic method, the relationship between chronic Chlamydia infection and diseases such as atherosclerosis and pulmonary emphysema was confirmed [31]. This method proved to be helpful also in the observation of the interaction of the Ebola virus with the host cells, showing the morphological changes occurring during this process [32].…”

Scanning Electron Microscope Examination as an Alternative to Classical Microbiology in the Diagnostics of Catheter-Related Sepsis?

“…SEM was also used to confirm a chronic Chlamydia infection and colonisation. These bacteria are responsible for the severity of chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis as well as emphysema [ 8 ]. SEM is also used for the assessment of the shape, size, and location of microorganisms in biofilm as well as the stages of biofilm formation, i.e., bacterial interactions and the production of extracellular polymer substances [ 6 ].…”