microbiology chapter 12 test bank Related

Review microbiology chapter 12 test bank related questions and content

A patient with diarrhea had stool culture revealing non-lactose-fermenting, Gram-negative rods. The bacteria produced gas in a nutrient broth. What is the most likely causative agent?

  • A. Salmonella typhi
  • B. Shigella dysenteriae
  • C. Escherichia coli
  • D. Proteus vulgaris
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Proteus vulgaris. Non-lactose-fermenting, Gram-negative rods that produce gas in a nutrient broth are characteristic of Proteus species. Proteus vulgaris is known for its swarming motility and ability to produce hydrogen sulfide gas. Salmonella typhi and Shigella dysenteriae are Enterobacteriaceae that do not produce gas in a nutrient broth. Escherichia coli is a lactose-fermenting bacterium and would not be expected to produce gas in a nutrient broth.