Moraxella Catarrhalis

Moraxella catarrhalis is a gram-negative diplococcus with a tendency to colonize the nasopharynx, particularly in children and young adults. It displays catalase-positive and oxidase-positive traits and thrives aerobically. Its capacity to form biofilms bolsters its resistance against certain antibiotics. The distinctive qualities of M. catarrhalis include a positive hockey puck sign, indicating the smooth movement of colonies across agar surfaces. An additional notable characteristic is the production of beta-lactamase, an enzyme enabling the breakdown of beta-lactam antibiotics, including penicillins. M. catarrhalis is implicated in childhood otitis media, often affecting those already colonized. It also plays a role in bacterial sinusitis. For individuals with COPD, M. catarrhalis triggers acute exacerbations of the condition and contributes to bronchopneumonia. Management typically involves medications like cephalosporins, amoxicillin-clavulanate, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), and fluoroquinolones.