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Branhamella catarrhalis was first described in 1896 and has been generally regarded as a nasopharyngeal commensal. There has been a recent increase in incidence of the organism associated with purulent sputum and respiratory infection. The current literature is reviewed. The authors studied in detail the clinical histories, bacteriological findings including antimicrobial sensitivity and bacteriological environment of 81 patients with symptoms of acute respiratory infection caused by B. catarrhalis. Of concern was the increasing high incidence of β lactamase producing strains. The importance of this development concerns the choice of routine antibiotic therapy. There was evidence of cross infection. Just over 50% of patients were infected in hospital. The authors conclude B catarrhalis is a significant lower tract pathogen which may be under reported and should be investigated and treated.
