Anaerobic bacteria. Their role in infection and their management.

Anaerobic bacteria are commonly involved in a number of common infections--especially aspiration pneumonia, intraabdominal infection, and a variety of female genital tract infections. Certain distinctive clinical features suggest the possibility of anaerobic infection; included are foul odor, infection in proximity to a mucosal surface, abscess formation, and gas in tissues or discharges. Treatment includes surgical management (debridement and drainage) and use of appropriate antimicrobial agents.