What is an anaerobic infection

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What is an anaerobic infection
What is an anaerobic infection
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Anaerobic infection is caused by anaerobic microorganisms that do not require oxygen for energy and life. Diseases caused by this type of bacteria include diseases such as botulism, tetanus, gas cellulitis, and gangrene. An aerobic infection, unlike an anaerobic one, is provoked by microorganisms that need oxygen to maintain their vital functions.

anaerobic infection
anaerobic infection

Brief classification of anaerobes

Microorganisms in this category are divided into clostridia (spore-forming) and non-clostridial types. There are also exogenous and endogenous anaerobes. The latter are considered part of the normal human microflora and are usually found in the genitourinary system and intestines. They are also found on mucous membranes, skin, and are excreted from the respiratory tract. Exogenous microorganisms are found in soil and decaying organic matter.

Aerobic infection
Aerobic infection

Anaerobic infection

This type of infection occurs quickly and is characterized by rapidly progressive necrotic tissue changes, as well as the formation of gases in them and severe intoxication. In this case, there are no pronounced inflammatory phenomena. Anaerobic infection is considered one of the most severe. It leads to the development of endogenous intoxication and damage to important systems and organs. Anaerobic infection has a high mortality rate. Its development can be subacute (from 4 days), acute (3-4 days), fulminant (1 day from the moment pathogens enter the body). The probability and rate of development of anaerobic infection, as a rule, depend on the number of microorganisms that have entered the wound, the degree of their pathogenicity and the individual characteristics of the human body. The appearance of pathology is facilitated by weakened immunity, the presence of tissue areas deprived of blood supply, and chronic intoxication. Anaerobic infection in surgery is one of the most severe postoperative complications.

Treatment

The main method of treating wound anaerobic infection is surgical, namely large-scale dissection of the affected area and complete removal of necrotic tissue with good drainage and antiseptic treatment. The leading role in postoperative therapy is the use of antibacterial drugs.

Anaerobic infection in surgery
Anaerobic infection in surgery

As a rule, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used: cephalosporins, semi-synthetic penicillins, aminoglycosides, etc. Antibacterial drugs are also used that selectively act on anaerobic microorganisms (Metronidazole, Clindamycin, Dioxidine, etc..). In difficult cases, patients are prescribed the maximum allowable dose of antibiotics every day. Infusion therapy is actively used: solutions of amino acids, blood products, blood substitutes. Of great importance is the detoxification of the body and boosting immunity. Prevention of anaerobic infections consists in careful and timely treatment of wounds and compliance with antiseptic and asepsis measures during surgical interventions.

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