gas_containing_infection [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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Gas-containing infection can occur in many regions and organs in the body. Gas-containing infections of the abdomen, pelvis, and extremities are well-known.

Gas-formation infections can occur with both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms.

Carbon dioxide and water are the end products of [[aerobic metabolism]].

Hydrogen, nitrogen, hydrogen sulfide and methane are produced from the combination of aerobic metabolism and anaerobic fermentation.

Of these gases, carbon dioxide diffuses rapidly into the surrounding tissues and is quickly absorbed because of its water solubility.

Other gases, except carbon dioxide, accumulate in tissues because of their reduced solubility in water

The most common predisposing factor for gas-containing infections is reported to be DM.

High blood glucose from poorly controlled DM and poor glycolysis at the tissue level in diabetic patients may contribute to increased glucose concentrations within the interstitial fluid.

Organisms then use the accumulated glucose to produce gases including carbon dioxide and hydrogen by means of anaerobic fermentation.