Clostridium perfringens

Common name

food poisoning or gas gangrene

Type of disease

bacterial

How is it transmitted/infection

contamination of deep wounds or surgical spores of disease

General signs and symptoms

intense pain, swelling, and gas production in tissues

What body systems/organs are involved?

muscle tissue and skin

Any toxins or virulence factors?

produces toxins (alpha toxins) that cause cell and tissue destruction

How is agent commonly identified?

wound culture, PCR

How does each bacteria stain for gram, endospore, capsule, acid fast?

Gram + , endospore

What shape do each bacteria have?

Bacillus

Classic signs/symptoms

crepitus (crackling sound)

Treatment, cure, common antibiotics?

Penicillin (antibiotic)

How can transmission be prevented?

wound care, proper hygiene