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Anaerobic bacteria

Definition

Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that do not live or grow in the presence of oxygen.

In humans, this type of bacteria is most commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. It plays a role in conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, and perforation of the bowel.

Alternative Names

Anaerobe

Review Date: 5/21/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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