microbiology chapter 12 test bank Related

Review microbiology chapter 12 test bank related questions and content

A sputum sample from a patient with pneumonia revealed Gram-positive cocci in pairs with a capsule. What is the most likely causative agent?

  • A. Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • B. Staphylococcus aureus
  • C. Klebsiella pneumoniae
  • D. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Streptococcus pneumoniae. This bacterium is the most likely causative agent for pneumonia in this case due to the presence of Gram-positive cocci in pairs with a capsule, which is a typical characteristic of S. pneumoniae. This pathogen is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia and is known for its encapsulated morphology. Staphylococcus aureus (B) is a Gram-positive cocci but does not typically present in pairs with a capsule in pneumonia cases. Klebsiella pneumoniae (C) is a Gram-negative bacterium and does not match the description provided. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (D) is a Gram-negative bacterium that is not typically associated with Gram-positive cocci in pneumonia samples.