Infections due to Escherichia coli and Other Enteric Gram-Negative Bacilli

Abstract

This review describes infections caused by Escherichia coli and related members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, excluding other genera that principally cause enteric infections. Infections caused by Salmonella, Shigella, and Yersinia are described in the review “Gastrointestinal Tract Infections," found elsewhere in this publication. The purpose of this review is to examine the specific epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of individual members of the Enterobacteriaceae. The emerging concern of antimicrobial resistance amongst enteric gram-negative organisms and the approach to treatment in the setting of infection with these resistant organisms are discussed in the review “Antimicrobial Resistance in Enteric Gram-Negative Organisms,” found elsewhere in this publication. Figures illustrate the mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance in Enterobacteriaceae. A table lists the clinical, epidemiologic, pathogenetic, and therapeutic aspects of infection with various pathotypes of Escherichia coli. This review contains 6 highly rendered figures, 1 table, and 79 references.