PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which two types of anaerobes are often present in surgical infections?

1. Bacteroides and Peptostreptococci

2. Clostridium and Lactobacillus

3. Escherichia and Bacteroides

4. Peptostreptococci and Enterococcus

The correct answer is: Bacteroides and Peptostreptococci

Bacteroides and Peptostreptococci are two types of anaerobic bacteria commonly associated with surgical infections. Understanding their significance in the context of surgical pathophysiology is essential. Bacteroides species are predominant members of the normal flora of the human colon and can become pathogenic when displaced into sterile areas of the body, such as during surgical procedures or in cases of perforation of the bowel. They are a leading cause of abscess formation and soft tissue infections and can contribute to polymicrobial infections that are typically resistant to many common antibiotics. Peptostreptococci are part of the normal flora as well, typically found in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and vagina. Like Bacteroides, they may be implicated in infections following surgical interventions, particularly in situations involving puncture wounds or drainage of abscesses. They are often part of the mixed infections that occur when multiple types of bacteria are present, especially in anaerobic environments. The other options provided include bacteria that may not typically be associated with surgical infections or may primarily exist in environments where anaerobic bacteria do not dominate. Therefore, the presence of Bacteroides and Peptostreptococci is particularly important in understanding the microbiology of