Enteritis necroticans

Definition

Enteritis necroticans is a severe bacterial infection of the small intestine, primarily caused by Clostridium perfringens type C. It leads to inflammation, necrosis, and sometimes perforation of the intestinal wall.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enteritis necroticans is often associated with consumption of undercooked pork or other protein-rich foods contaminated with Clostridium perfringens type C.
2. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and signs of sepsis in advanced stages.
3. The disease is also known by names such as 'pig-bel' which is common in Papua New Guinea.
4. Treatment typically involves high doses of antibiotics like penicillin and sometimes surgical intervention to remove necrotic tissue.
5. Clostridium perfringens type C produces beta-toxin which is responsible for the damage to the intestinal lining.

Review Questions

• What are the primary symptoms associated with enteritis necroticans?
• Which bacterium causes enteritis necroticans and what toxin does it produce?
• What are common treatments for enteritis necroticans?

Related terms

Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically resulting from bacterial toxins or viral infection causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Clostridium perfringens: A bacterium that can cause food poisoning and severe infections such as gas gangrene.

Beta-toxin: A potent toxin produced by Clostridium perfringens type C that causes cell death and tissue damage.