Which organism is identified as a normal flora that can cause abscesses following surgery?

Bacteroides fragilis is recognized as a member of the normal flora, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract, where it plays a role in maintaining a healthy microbial balance. However, under certain conditions—such as following surgical procedures that compromise tissue integrity or disrupt the normal barrier of the gut—Bacteroides fragilis can become pathogenic.

This organism is known for its ability to cause various types of infections, including abscesses, particularly in the abdominal cavity and other areas where it is not typically found. The virulence of Bacteroides fragilis is often associated with its capacity to survive in anaerobic environments, its resistance to certain antibiotics, and its potential to produce toxins.

In contrast, the other organisms listed, while also part of the normal flora and capable of causing infections, are not as commonly associated with abscess formation following surgical procedures. For example, Propionibacterium, predominantly found on the skin, can lead to infections in different contexts, such as post-surgery in clean environments. Fusobacterium is usually located in the oral cavity and can cause soft tissue infections but is less frequently related to abscesses resulting from surgical interventions in other areas. Actinomyces is typically associated with chronic infections but