Microbiology An Evolving Science Test Bank Related

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On microscopic examination of leftovers of the canned meat eaten by patient with severe food toxicoinfection the following was detected: gram-positive bacilli with subterminal staining defect and configuration alteration of bacilli generally resembling a tennis racket. What agent was detected?

  • A. C. botulinum
  • B. P. vulgaris
  • C. E. coli
  • D. S. aureus
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: C. botulinum. The description of gram-positive bacilli with subterminal staining defect and tennis racket appearance is characteristic of Clostridium botulinum. The subterminal staining defect indicates the presence of spores, a feature of Clostridium species. The tennis racket appearance refers to the characteristic shape of C. botulinum spores. Choice B, P. vulgaris, is a gram-negative bacterium and doesn't match the description. Choice C, E. coli, is a gram-negative bacillus and doesn't exhibit the subterminal staining defect described. Choice D, S. aureus, is a gram-positive cocci and does not resemble the tennis racket appearance described.