What Is Microbiology - Intra Abdominal Abscess

​Intra Abdominal Abscess

Intra abdominal abscess is caused by bacteroides fragilis. Bacteroides fragilis is an anaerobic gram negative rod.  

Bacteroides fragilis consist an anti phagocytic capsule which protect and escape the bacteria from the innate immune system as well as leading to the abscess formation. 

Bacteroides fragilis may lead to peritonitis, sepsis and intra abdominal abscess. Bacteroides fragilis infection may lead to endogenous spread due to trauma. 

Bacteroides fragilis may produce superoxide dismutase which lead to aero tolerance. Bacteroides fragilis form part of the normal flora of the colon and vagina.  Patient with bacteroides fragilis may lead to infection of the gynecological system. 

Bacteroides fragilis may present with infections from other forms of bacteria. The treatment may include antibiotic such as metronidazole, clindamycin, chloramphenicol and drainage of the abscess. Prophylactic antibiotic is considered prior to surgery.