Definition

Noun: 1. A type of rod-shaped bacterium: Mycobacterium is a genus of bacteria characterized by their slender, rod-like shape. A key feature is their unique cell wall, which is waxy and impermeable, making them resistant to many common stains and antibiotics. Some species live harmlessly in the environment (saprophytic), while others are significant pathogens causing diseases in humans and animals.

Usage

• is primarily used in scientific, medical, and microbiological contexts.
• It is often followed by the specific species name (e.g., ).
• It can be used in both singular and plural forms, though the plural "mycobacteria" is common when referring to the group.

Examples

• Scientific Identification:
  • "The laboratory test confirmed the presence of mycobacterium in the tissue sample."
  • "Researchers are studying the cell wall structure of various mycobacteria."
• Medical Context:
  • "Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis."
  • "Atypical mycobacteria can sometimes cause lung infections resembling tuberculosis."

Advanced Usage

• "Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)": This term refers to all species except those that cause tuberculosis and leprosy. They are often environmental organisms that can opportunistically cause disease.
  • "Infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria are increasingly recognized in clinical settings."

Variants and Related Words

• Mycobacterial (adjective): Relating to or caused by mycobacteria.
  • "The patient was diagnosed with a mycobacterial infection."
• Mycobacteria (noun, plural): The plural form of .
  • "Several mycobacteria are found in soil and water."

Synonyms

• Acid-fast bacillus (AFB): A technical synonym based on the staining property (acid-fastness) characteristic of mycobacteria.
  • "The smear was positive for acid-fast bacilli, suggesting a mycobacterial infection."

Different Meanings

The word mycobacterium does not have common, distinct meanings outside of its specific microbiological definition. Its meaning is consistently tied to the genus of bacteria described.

Noun

1. rod-shaped bacteria some saprophytic or causing diseases