microbiology chapter 12 test bank Related

Review microbiology chapter 12 test bank related questions and content

A Gram-stained sputum smear revealed Gram-positive rods in chains with central spores. The patient presented with severe pneumonia. What is the causative agent?

  • A. Bacillus anthracis
  • B. Clostridium tetani
  • C. Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • D. Klebsiella pneumoniae
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bacillus anthracis. The presence of Gram-positive rods in chains with central spores on the Gram stain indicates Bacillus anthracis. This bacterium is known to cause severe pneumonia. Clostridium tetani does not typically cause pneumonia but rather tetanus. Streptococcus pneumoniae is a Gram-positive cocci, not rods. Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative bacterium commonly associated with pneumonia, but it does not form central spores.