microbiology basic and clinical principles test bank Related

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A patient with fever, headache, and neck stiffness had a cerebrospinal fluid sample showing Gram-negative diplococci. What is the most likely causative agent?

  • A. Neisseria meningitidis
  • B. Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • C. Haemophilus influenzae
  • D. Klebsiella pneumoniae
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Neisseria meningitidis. This is because Neisseria meningitidis is a Gram-negative diplococcus known to cause bacterial meningitis, presenting with fever, headache, and neck stiffness. It is a common cause of meningitis in young adults and teenagers. Streptococcus pneumoniae (B) is a Gram-positive bacteria and a common cause of bacterial pneumonia, not meningitis. Haemophilus influenzae (C) is a Gram-negative coccobacillus that can cause meningitis, but it is less common in adults. Klebsiella pneumoniae (D) is a Gram-negative bacillus known to cause pneumonia and urinary tract infections, not meningitis.