mastering microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Outer membrane with lipopolysaccharides. Gram-negative bacteria have an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which are important in pathogenesis and immune response. This feature is unique to Gram-negative bacteria, distinguishing them from Gram-positive bacteria (choice A). Teichoic acids (choice C) are found in the cell walls of Gram-positive bacteria, not Gram-negative. The statement in choice D, absence of a cell wall, is incorrect as all bacteria have a cell wall, although the composition may vary between Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chlamydia. Chlamydia lacks the essential enzymes for ATP synthesis and relies on host cell ATP. Enterococci, Rickettsia, and Staphylococci possess the necessary enzymes for ATP synthesis through cellular respiration. Chlamydia's inability to synthesize ATP makes it dependent on the host cell for energy production, distinguishing it from the other bacteria listed.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: epidermolytic toxin. This toxin specifically targets the epidermis, leading to exfoliation seen in scalded skin syndrome (SSS). Hemolysis (A) refers to the destruction of red blood cells, not relevant to SSS. Enterotoxins (B) cause food poisoning, not SSS. Leucocidins (C) target white blood cells, not pertinent to SSS. Therefore, the epidermolytic toxin (D) is the correct choice for causing SSS.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, All of the above. Clostridium botulinum produces botulinum toxin causing botulism, Vibrio cholerae produces cholera toxin leading to severe diarrhea, and certain strains of Escherichia coli produce toxins causing gastrointestinal illness. Each bacterium has specific exotoxins that can result in severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, all three choices are correct in producing exotoxins that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for answer A: 1. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known to cause burn wounds infections due to its ability to survive in moist environments. 2. It can cause severe pneumonia in patients with cystic fibrosis due to its resistance to antibiotics and ability to form biofilms. 3. It is a common cause of nosocomial infections in hospitals due to its ability to colonize medical equipment and surfaces. Summary of other choices: B. Pseudomonas aeruginosa typically does not cause food poisoning, as it is not a common pathogen associated with foodborne illnesses. C. Bacterial pharyngitis is usually caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, not Pseudomonas aeruginosa, making this choice incorrect. D. None of the above is incorrect as Pseudomonas aeruginosa is associated with specific infections mentioned in option A.