Microbiology Chapter 14 Test Bank Related

Review Microbiology Chapter 14 Test Bank related questions and content

A woman gave birth to a stillborn baby with numerous malformations. What protozoan disease could cause intrauterine death?

  • A. Toxoplasmosis
  • B. Leishmaniasis
  • C. Malaria
  • D. Amebiasis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, which can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy leading to stillbirth and malformations. This parasite can cross the placenta and infect the fetus, causing severe complications. Leishmaniasis (B), Malaria (C), and Amebiasis (D) are not known to cause intrauterine death or malformations in the same way as Toxoplasmosis. Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sandflies, Malaria by mosquitoes, and Amebiasis by contaminated food or water.