PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which type of organisms are commonly found together with anaerobes in infections?

1. Enterococcus

2. Beta-hemolytic streptococci

3. Enteric organisms

4. Saprophytic organisms

The correct answer is: Enteric organisms

The correct choice highlights the association of enteric organisms with anaerobic infections, which is clinically significant. Anaerobes, such as Bacteroides and Clostridium species, thrive in environments with low oxygen levels and are often part of the normal flora of the gastrointestinal tract. When infections occur, especially polymicrobial infections like those resulting from abscesses or perforations of the bowel, enteric organisms often coexist with anaerobes. Enteric organisms, including species like Escherichia coli and other members of the Enterobacteriaceae family, frequently inhabit the gut and can contribute to infections when they escape the gastrointestinal tract into sterile sites, such as the peritoneum or bloodstream. In contrast, other options do not typically associate closely with anaerobic organisms in infections. While Enterococcus can be involved in various infections, it is primarily a facultative anaerobe and does not share the same ecological niche as strict anaerobes. Beta-hemolytic streptococci are primarily found in the respiratory tract and skin and are not associated with anaerobic environments. Saprophytic organisms mainly decompose organic matter in soil and are not commonly implicated in infections with anaerobes. Thus, enteric organisms are relevant in