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A patient with pneumonia had sputum cultured, revealing Gram-negative rods. The bacteria were lactose fermenters and produced green colonies on MacConkey agar. What is the most likely causative agent?

  • A. Escherichia coli
  • B. Klebsiella pneumoniae
  • C. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • D. Proteus mirabilis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale:
1. Gram-negative rods suggest Enterobacteriaceae family.
2. Lactose fermenters narrow down to E. coli.
3. Green colonies on MacConkey agar indicate acid production.
4. E. coli is a common cause of pneumonia.
Therefore, the most likely causative agent is Escherichia coli. Other choices are incorrect as Klebsiella is non-lactose fermenter, Pseudomonas is oxidase-positive, and Proteus is non-lactose fermenter.