Fusobacterium spp. normally live in the human gastrointestinal tract, and oral cavity. These organisms can become pathogenic under circumstances that include disruption of the normal intestinal mucosa, during trauma or surgery.

Where are Fusobacteria found?

Fusobacterium are usually found as part of the normal oral, gastrointestinal and genital flora, but may induce septic thrombophlebitis in the neighboring neck vessels when the infection is associated with an oropharyngeal abscess.

Is Fusobacteria harmful or helpful?

Fusobacteria are anaerobic gram-negative rods that are a rare cause of serious human disease [1,2]. Two Fusobacterium species, F. nucleatum and F. necrophorum, are the most commonly isolated pathogens within this genus [2,3].