A superinfection is a new infection that develops while a person is already being treated for an initial infection. This second infection is often caused by a different microorganism or a strain resistant to the current treatment.
How Superinfections Originate
The human body hosts a vast community of microorganisms, collectively known as the microbiome, which plays a significant role in maintaining health. This diverse ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viruses resides on the skin, in the gut, and other mucous membranes. A balanced microbiome helps prevent harmful pathogens from establishing themselves by competing for resources and producing antimicrobial substances.
Treatments for initial infections, particularly broad-spectrum antibiotics, can disrupt this delicate microbial balance. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are designed to target a wide range of bacteria, including beneficial ones. When these helpful microbes are eliminated, open niches become available, allowing opportunistic pathogens to multiply without competition.
This disruption creates an environment where new or naturally resistant microorganisms can overgrow. For instance, if beneficial bacteria that keep certain fungi in check are eliminated, those fungi can proliferate, leading to a superinfection.
Common Superinfection Scenarios
One frequently encountered superinfection involves the bacterium Clostridioides difficile, often occurring after antibiotic use. Antibiotics can eradicate the beneficial gut bacteria that normally suppress C. difficile, allowing this bacterium to multiply uncontrollably. This overgrowth leads to severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, a condition known as C. difficile infection.
Another common example is the development of yeast infections, such as oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections, following antibiotic treatment. The normal flora in the mouth and vagina includes beneficial bacteria that keep the growth of Candida yeast in check. When antibiotics reduce these bacterial populations, Candida can proliferate, leading to symptomatic fungal infections.
Superinfections can also occur in the respiratory tract. For example, a viral infection like the flu can damage the lining of the airways, making the body more susceptible to subsequent bacterial pneumonia.
Identifying and Addressing Superinfections
Recognizing a superinfection often involves observing new or worsening symptoms that arise during or after treatment for an initial illness. These symptoms can vary widely depending on the location and type of the new infection. For instance, new fever, persistent diarrhea, unusual discharge, or the development of new pain or inflammation might indicate a superinfection.
Addressing a superinfection involves a multi-pronged approach. Healthcare providers may re-evaluate the ongoing treatment for the first infection. If an antibiotic is contributing, it might be discontinued or changed to a more targeted medication.
The new superinfection itself needs specific treatment. This involves using medications effective against the pathogen, such as antifungals for yeast infections or different antibiotics for bacterial superinfections. The choice of medication depends on the identified microbe and its susceptibility to various drugs.
It is important to seek medical advice if new or worsening symptoms appear during or after treatment for an infection. Self-diagnosis or self-treatment can be ineffective and potentially harmful. Healthcare professionals can diagnose the superinfection and prescribe the appropriate therapy to resolve the new infection.