Clostridia is a genus of anaerobic bacteria, some of which are part of the normal microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, the female genital tract. Also, sometimes these microorganisms are found on the surface of the skin and in the oral cavity, but the main place of their dwelling is the intestine.
Stool analysis on clostridia
In stool in adult healthy people, clostridia can be contained in an amount not exceeding 105 cfu / g. Bacteriological examination of feces on clostridia can be prescribed to patients with clinical symptoms such as:
- diarrhea;
- pain in the abdominal region;
- nausea;
- fever.
Bacteriological study of feces on clostridia is performed in the process of analysis of fecal masses for dysbacteriosis, which allows to determine which microorganisms and in what quantities inhabit the human intestine. The reliability of the results is largely determined by the correctness of the collection of material for the study.
The Danger of Clostridium
Most of the clostridia species are not pathogenic and are involved in the processing of proteins. As a result, toxic substances indole and scatol are released, which in small amounts stimulate intestinal motility and facilitate the passage of stool. But with an increase in the number of clostridia in the gastrointestinal tract, the amount of these toxic substances increases, which can lead to the development of a pathology such as putrefactive dyspepsia.
Some types of clostridia are dangerous and cause severe diseases that can lead to death:
- tetanus;
- botulism;
- gas gangrene .
With botulism and tetanus, the nervous system and muscle tissue are affected. Gas gangrene is a complication of the wound process, in which the body is quickly poisoned by the products of the decomposition of the affected
Clostridia perfringens, which are the causative agents of gas gangrene, can also cause intoxication of the body when consuming infected food. Clostridia produce toxins, which are the main factor in the development of poisoning.
Another disease, which can lead to these microorganisms, is an antibiotic-associated diarrhea. This disease develops as a result of taking antibiotics, which suppress not only pathogenic, but also normal intestinal microflora. As a result, the number of clostridia (as well as other pathogenic bacteria) increases.