free microbiology test bank questions pdf

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: TRUE. The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against infections and is always active, providing immediate protection without prior exposure to a specific pathogen. It includes physical barriers, such as skin and mucous membranes, and cellular components like phagocytes and natural killer cells. The innate immune response is nonspecific and rapid, providing a crucial initial defense against pathogens. Choice B is incorrect because the innate immune system is always active, even without any prior exposure to pathogens. Choice C is incorrect because the innate immune system is consistently functioning to protect the body, regardless of the situation. Choice D is incorrect as the correct answer is A.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of tuberculosis, as it specifically infects the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body. Mycobacterium leprae (Choice A) causes leprosy, not tuberculosis. Bacillus anthracis (Choice C) causes anthrax, not tuberculosis. Staphylococcus aureus (Choice D) is a common bacterium known for causing skin infections, not tuberculosis. Therefore, Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the correct answer for the causative agent of tuberculosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The symptoms described are consistent with Balantidiasis, caused by the parasite Balantidium coli. The presence of ciliated oval organisms in the feces is characteristic of this disease. Ulcers in the large intestine are common in Balantidiasis due to tissue invasion by the parasite. Headache, fever, and abdominal pain are typical symptoms. Other choices can be ruled out: B) Amebiasis presents with similar symptoms but usually involves the liver. C) Toxoplasmosis typically presents with lymphadenopathy and flu-like symptoms. D) Lambliasis usually causes watery diarrhea without blood or mucus. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Balantidiasis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Dinoflagellates. Red tides are caused by the rapid growth of certain species of dinoflagellates, which are single-celled algae. These algae produce toxins that can harm marine life and humans. Lichens (A) are not associated with red tides. While some bacteria (B) can contribute to harmful algal blooms, they are not the primary cause of red tides. Pfiesteria (C) is a type of harmful algal species, but it is not the main organism responsible for red tides. Therefore, the correct answer is dinoflagellates (D) due to their ability to cause red tides through toxin production.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This bacterium causes diphtheria, a disease characterized by a pseudomembrane in the throat. This pseudomembrane is a result of the bacterial exotoxins causing inflammation and necrosis of the throat tissues. Clostridium tetani (A) causes tetanus, characterized by muscle stiffness, not a pseudomembrane in the throat. Bordetella pertussis (B) causes whooping cough, with symptoms of severe coughing fits but no pseudomembrane. Streptococcus pyogenes (D) causes strep throat, but does not produce a pseudomembrane.