Superinfections

Definition

Superinfections are secondary infections that occur when the normal microbial flora is disrupted by antibiotic treatment, allowing resistant organisms to grow. These infections can complicate the management of the primary infection and often require different antimicrobial therapy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Superinfections commonly occur with broad-spectrum antibiotic use.
2. Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is a well-known example of a superinfection.
3. Patients with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for superinfections.
4. Superinfections may require discontinuation of the initial antibiotic and initiation of a new one.
5. Preventing superinfections involves using antibiotics judiciously and monitoring for signs of secondary infections.

Review Questions

• What are superinfections, and how do they occur?
• Why are broad-spectrum antibiotics more likely to cause superinfections?
• Name an example of a common superinfection and its associated organism.

Related terms

Antibiotic Resistance: The ability of bacteria to withstand the effects of an antibiotic.

Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics: Antibiotics that act against a wide range of disease-causing bacteria.

Normal Microbial Flora: The community of microorganisms that reside in or on the body without causing disease under normal circumstances.