Mastering Microbiology Test Bank Related

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A bacteriological laboratory received sputum sample of a patient suffering from tuberculosis. Bacterioscopic examination of smears and detection of tuberculosis bacillus can be realized by one of enrichment methods that involves processing of sputum only with solution of caustic soda. What is this method called?

  • A. Homogenization
  • B. Inactivation
  • C. Flotation
  • D. Filtration
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inactivation. In this method, the sputum sample is processed with a solution of caustic soda, which helps to kill any contaminants present and preserve the tuberculosis bacillus for microscopic examination. This step is crucial in ensuring accurate detection of the bacillus.

A: Homogenization involves breaking down the sample to make it uniform, but it does not necessarily involve using caustic soda for inactivation.
C: Flotation is a method used to separate different components based on their density and is not specific to inactivating tuberculosis bacillus.
D: Filtration involves passing a sample through a filter to separate particles based on size and is not related to inactivating the tuberculosis bacillus.