Several types of bacteria can cause colitis, an inflammation of the colon. Here's a breakdown of the common culprits:
Common Bacterial Causes of Colitis
Colitis, characterized by inflammation of the colon, can be triggered by various infectious agents. Several bacteria are frequently associated with this condition:
| Bacteria | Notes |
|---|---|
| Campylobacter jejuni | Commonly known as C. jejuni, this bacterium is a frequent cause of food poisoning and can lead to bacterial colitis. |
| Salmonella | Salmonella infections are a well-known cause of foodborne illness and can result in colitis. |
| Shigella | This bacterium is another common culprit for causing bacterial colitis, especially in cases of dysentery. |
| Escherichia coli (E. coli) | Certain strains of E. coli are pathogenic and can cause a range of intestinal issues, including colitis. |
| Yersinia enterocolitica | This bacterium is often found in food and water and can cause gastrointestinal illness that includes inflammation of the colon. |
| Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) | C. diff, previously known as Clostridium difficile, is a significant cause of colitis, often following antibiotic use. This bacterium can cause severe inflammation and even pseudomembranous colitis. |
| Mycobacterium tuberculosis | While less common, Mycobacterium tuberculosis can, in rare cases, cause colitis, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. |
Summary of Bacterial Causes
The reference information states that several bacteria are known to cause colitis. These include:
- Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni)
- Salmonella
- Shigella
- Escherichia coli (E. coli)
- Yersinia enterocolitica
- Clostridioides difficile (C. diff)
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis
These bacteria can cause inflammation and irritation of the colon lining, leading to the symptoms associated with colitis.
