Final answer:
Clostridium perfringens causes diarrhea by producing an enterotoxin in undercooked meats that leads to cramps and diarrhea. Diagnosis is made by detecting the toxin in stools, and treatment involves rehydration and electrolyte replacement, with an emphasis on prevention through proper food handling and cooking.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Does Clostridium Perfringens Cause Diarrhea?
Clostridium perfringens is a gram-positive, rod-shaped, endospore-forming anaerobic bacterium, which causes a generally mild form of foodborne illness known as Clostridium perfringens gastroenteritis. This condition is often associated with consuming undercooked meats. The bacteria can withstand extreme temperatures and produce endospores that survive in unfavorable conditions and germinate rapidly in food or within the intestine. The clinical symptoms, including cramps and diarrhea, are caused by an enterotoxin produced by type A strains of the bacterium, which is also sometimes present in other strains. A more severe and rare form, called pig-bel or enteritis necroticans, can lead to serious complications like gangrene of the intestines with a high mortality rate, though it is rare in the United States.
Diagnosis involves detecting the enterotoxin in stool samples, while treatment primarily consists of rehydration therapy and electrolyte replacement. The prevention of this illness is critical and can be achieved through proper food handling and cooking techniques.