A wound swab from a patient with severe tissue infection revealed Gram-positive rods in chains producing gas. The bacteria were spore-forming. What is the causative agent?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clostridium perfringens. This bacterium is a Gram-positive rod that forms chains and produces gas due to its ability to ferment carbohydrates. It is also spore-forming, which helps it survive harsh conditions. Clostridium perfringens is commonly associated with severe tissue infections and gas gangrene.
Choice B: Bacillus anthracis is also a spore-forming Gram-positive rod but is not typically associated with gas production or severe tissue infections.
Choice C: Clostridium tetani is a spore-forming bacterium that causes tetanus, not severe tissue infections with gas production.
Choice D: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacterium and does not fit the description provided in the question.