Saturday, February, 11, 2012

Anaerobic bacteria

Table of Contents

Definition

Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that do not live or grow in the presence of oxygen.

In humans, these bacteria are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. They play a role in conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, and perforation of the bowel.


Alternative Names

Anaerobe


How the test is performed


How to prepare for the test


How the test will feel


Why the test is performed


Images

Bacteria

Review Date: 05/22/2011
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)