[Branhamella catarrhalis as a disease pathogen].

Since 1980, numerous reports have been published throughout the world on the pathogenic role of Branhamella catarrhalis. Apparently, Branhamella infections have been increasing in many places. Although they can affect various organs, they are most commonly observed in the airways and eye (both in children and adults). Not infrequently, Branhamella catarrhalis causes sepsis, in particular in immunosuppressed patients. The rapid increase in beta-lactamase-forming Branhamella strains results in frequent ineffectiveness of treatment with penicillin. In patients treated with penicillin for a primary infection by other bacteria, a secondary infection due to penicillin-resistant Branhamella organisms can subsequently occur. For treatment, therefore, beta-lactamase-stable antibiotics should be preferred.