Several bacteria can directly or indirectly attack nerves, causing various neurological diseases. The mechanism of attack varies depending on the bacteria.
Direct Nerve Attack:
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Mycobacterium leprae (Leprosy): This bacterium directly targets the Schwann cells of the peripheral nervous system, causing nerve damage and the characteristic numbness in fingers and toes. Researchers find how leprosy bacterium selects and attacks nerves
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Clostridium botulinum (Botulism): This bacterium produces a potent neurotoxin that directly attacks the nervous system, causing paralysis. The toxin interferes with nerve signal transmission, potentially leading to respiratory failure if the breathing nerves are affected. Botulism: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Indirect Nerve Attack (through immune response):
- Various Bacteria (Guillain-Barré Syndrome): Many bacterial infections can trigger Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune disorder. While the bacteria themselves don't directly attack the nerves, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves after an infection. This leads to weakness, numbness, or paralysis. Guillain-Barré syndrome, Guillain-Barre syndrome - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic, Guillain-Barre syndrome: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
Bacteria Causing Meningitis (Indirect Nerve Damage):
- Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae: These bacteria are major causes of bacterial meningitis. While they primarily infect the meninges (protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), the inflammation and infection can indirectly damage nerves. [Adult bacterial meningitis is predominantly due to Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae, except in cases where there had been a penetrating wound to the skull, surgery, or immunosuppression in the host. Neisseria meningitidis causes epidemic disease, all other forms of pyogenic meningitis are sporadic.]
Bacterial Stimulation of Nerve Cells (Pain):
Research indicates that certain bacteria can directly stimulate sensory neurons, leading to pain and suppressing inflammation. Bacteria Trigger Nerve Cells to Cause Pain | National Institutes of ...
It's crucial to remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and research on the interaction between bacteria and the nervous system is ongoing.
