microbiology basic and clinical principles test bank Related

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A patient with a sore throat had a throat culture revealing Gram-positive cocci in chains. The bacteria were catalase-negative and beta-hemolytic on blood agar. What is the most likely causative agent?

  • A. Streptococcus pyogenes
  • B. Staphylococcus aureus
  • C. Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • D. Enterococcus faecalis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Gram-positive cocci in chains suggest Streptococcus species.
Step 2: Catalase-negative eliminates Staphylococcus aureus.
Step 3: Beta-hemolytic on blood agar matches Streptococcus pyogenes.
Step 4: Streptococcus pyogenes is a common cause of sore throat (pharyngitis).
Summary:
A: Streptococcus pyogenes - Correct due to Gram-positive cocci in chains, catalase-negative, beta-hemolytic, and common cause of sore throat.
B: Staphylococcus aureus - Incorrect due to catalase-positive.
C: Streptococcus pneumoniae - Incorrect due to alpha-hemolytic.
D: Enterococcus faecalis - Incorrect due to not being beta-hemolytic.