Inflammation throughout the gastrointestinal tract can cause ulcers, anywhere from the mouth to the intestines. (NIH, 2014). The ulcers can leak bacteria and fecal material into the abdominal cavity. This leakage into the abdominal cavity can cause an increased growth of bacteria which causes an infection known as an abscess. If an abscess is not treated properly, it can continue to get larger and eventually the bacteria can spread into the bloodstream and through the body. A serious bacterial infection can occur, especially if the abscess breaks through organs or tissues and the pus spreads throughout the abdomen (Steinhart, 2012). These complications can be seriously life threatening, depending on the severity. It is unknown who might get
