foundations in microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because phagocytosis refers to the process where certain host cells engulf and destroy microorganisms. This is an essential mechanism of the immune system to eliminate pathogens. Choice A is incorrect because phagocytosis does not involve the use of antibiotics. Choice B is incorrect as it describes a different mechanism of action against bacteria. Choice D is incorrect because phagocytosis is a well-established biological process.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Aspergillus flavus is a fungus known to produce aflatoxin. 2. Aflatoxin is a potent carcinogen found in contaminated food. 3. Candida albicans is a yeast species not associated with aflatoxin production. 4. Claviceps purpurea is a fungus that produces ergot alkaloids, not aflatoxin. 5. Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium known for causing food poisoning, not aflatoxin production. Summary: Aspergillus flavus is the correct answer as it is the organism known to produce aflatoxin, a carcinogenic substance. Other choices are incorrect as they are not associated with aflatoxin production.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer A (Diphtheria): 1. Thin yellow bacilli with dark brown grains on ends suggest Corynebacterium diphtheriae, characteristic of diphtheria. 2. Roman numeral five shape is typical of diphtheria bacilli. 3. Diphtheria causes sore throat and can spread in boarding schools. 4. Neisser staining method is used for diphtheria bacilli. Summary of Incorrect Choices: B: Scarlet fever is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes and presents with rash, not yellow bacilli. C: Listeriosis is caused by Listeria monocytogenes, not consistent with the described findings. D: Tonsillitis can be caused by various bacteria or viruses, but the specific characteristics described do not match.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Plague. Yersinia pestis is the bacterium responsible for causing the bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic plague. The bacterium is transmitted to humans through infected flea bites or handling infected animals. Tonsillitis (A) is commonly caused by streptococcal bacteria, leprosy (B) is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, and rat fever (D) is another term for leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira bacteria.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: IFA - Immunofluorescence assay. Toxoplasmosis and chronic gonorrhea can be detected using serological tests like IFA. IFA detects specific antibodies in the patient's serum by using fluorescently labeled antibodies. This method is highly sensitive and specific for detecting both acute and latent infections. Explanation of Incorrect Choices: A: RIHA - Reverse indirect hemagglutination assay - This test is not commonly used for detecting toxoplasmosis or chronic gonorrhea. B: RDHA - Reverse direct hemagglutination assay - This test is not typically used for these specific infections. D: Immunoblot analysis - While Immunoblot analysis is a useful confirmatory test for certain infections, it is not the primary method for detecting toxoplasmosis or chronic gonorrhea.