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Anaerobic bacteria - Overview

Alternative Names

Anaerobe

Definition of Anaerobic bacteria:

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

In humans, these bacteria are most commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. They play a role in conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, and perforation of the bowel.

  • Reviewed last on: 5/22/2011
  • 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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