Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Practice Test

What is the effect of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on C. perfringens?

1. Bactericidal to the organism

2. Bacteriostatic to the organism

3. Virulent to the organism

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Bacteriostatic to the organism

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) has a significant impact on anaerobic bacteria such as Clostridium perfringens. This bacterium thrives in environments with low oxygen levels and can be responsible for severe infections. Under hyperbaric conditions, the increased availability of oxygen can actually inhibit the growth of these anaerobic organisms, leading to a bacteriostatic effect. Bacteriostatic means that while the bacteria may not be killed outright, their growth and reproduction are inhibited, giving the immune system a better chance to combat the infection. This is crucial in treating conditions like gas gangrene, where C. perfringens can proliferate rapidly. While HBO does provide some bactericidal effects at higher pressures or concentrations and can enhance the overall effectiveness of antibiotics and the immune response, its primary role against organisms like C. perfringens is to slow their growth. Thus, the correct characterization of HBO's effect on C. perfringens is that it is bacteriostatic, effectively restraining the organism from growing and allowing for potential recovery from the infection.