What type of bacteria does E. Coli belong to in the context of urinary infections?

E. coli, short for Escherichia coli, is classified as a Gram-negative bacillus. This type of bacteria is rod-shaped and does not retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure, which is why it is categorized as Gram-negative. In the context of urinary infections, E. coli is one of the most common causative agents. Its structure, including a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane, contributes to its pathogenicity, particularly in urinary tract infections. Understanding this classification helps in selecting appropriate treatment options, as Gram-negative bacteria often require different antibiotics than Gram-positive bacteria. The identification of E. coli as a Gram-negative bacillus also aligns with its biological characteristics and the mechanisms it employs for adherence and invasion within the urinary tract.