Anaerobic bacteria

Definition

Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that do not live or grow when oxygen is present.

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

References

Murray PR, Rosenthal KS, Pfaller MA. Non-spore-forming anaerobic bacteria. In: Murray PR, Rosenthal KS, Pfaller MA, eds. Medical Microbiology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 31.

Patel R, Fraser VJ. Introduction to microbial disease: pathophysiology and diagnostics. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 256.

Review Date: 4/1/2025
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor Emeritus, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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