Escherichia coli O157:H7: Currently, there are four recognized classes of enterovirulent E. coli (collectively referred to as the EEC group) that cause gastroenteritis in humans. Among these is the ... more about Escherichia coli O157:H7.
Escherichia coli O157:H7: A form of bacteria commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. More detailed information about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Escherichia coli O157:H7 is available below.
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Prognosis for Escherichia coli O157:H7: Most persons recover without antibiotics or other specific treatment in 5-10 days. (Source: excerpt from Escherichia coli O157:H7 General: DBMD)
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Currently, there are four recognized classes of enterovirulent E. coli (collectively referred to as the EEC group) that cause gastroenteritis in humans. Among these is the enterohemorrhagic (EHEC) strain designated E. coli O157:H7. E. coli is a normal inhabitant of the intestines of all animals, including humans. When aerobic culture methods are used, E. coli is the dominant species found in feces. Normally E. coli serves a useful function in the body by suppressing the growth of harmful bacterial species and by synthesizing appreciable amounts of vitamins. A minority of E. coli strains are capable of causing human illness by several different mechanisms. E. coli serotype O157:H7 is a rare variety of E. coli that produces large quantities of one or more related, potent toxins that cause severe damage to the lining of the intestine. These toxins [verotoxin (VT), shiga-like toxin] are closely related or identical to the toxin produced by Shigella dysenteriae. (Source: FDA Bad Bug Book)
E. coli O157:H7 is one of hundreds of strains of the
bacterium Escherichia coli. Although most strains are harmless
and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals, this
strain produces a powerful toxin and can cause severe illness.
E. coli O157:H7 was first recognized as a cause of illness
in 1982 during an outbreak of severe bloody diarrhea; the outbreak
was traced to contaminated hamburgers. Since then, most infections
have come from eating undercooked ground beef.
The combination of letters and numbers in the name of the bacterium
refers to the specific markers found on its surface and distinguishes
it from other types of E. coli. (Source: excerpt from Escherichia coli O157:H7 General: DBMD)
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