Gas Gangrene Flashcards
1
Q
Gas Gangrene Characteristics
A
-Spores found in soil, human skin, intestine, and vagina
2
Q
Gas Gangrene Myonecrosis
A
Clostridium perfringens- most frequent in soft tissue and wound infections
3
Q
Gas Gangrenes Predisposing Factors
A
- Surgical incisions
- Compound fractures
- Diabetic ulcers
- Septic abortions
- Puncture wounds
- Gunshot wounds
4
Q
Gas Gangrene Virulence Factors
A
- Alpha toxin–> Causes RBC rupture, edema, tissue destruction
- Collagenase
- Hyaluronidase
- DNase
5
Q
Gas Gangrene Pathology
A
- Requires damage and dead tissue and anaerobic conditions
- Stimulate spore germination/vegetative growth
- Release of exotoxins
- Fermentation of carbs create gas (destroys tissue)
6
Q
Gas Gangrene Treatment
A
Immediate cleaning of:
- Dirty wounds
- Decubitus ulcers
- Compound Fracture
- Infected incisions
7
Q
Gas Gangrene Medicine Treatment
A
- Large does of cephalosporin or penicillin
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
8
Q
Gas Gangrene Prevention
A
No vaccines available
