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Which bacteria produce exotoxins that damage host tissues?

  • A. Clostridium tetani and Bacillus anthracis
  • B. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • C. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Listeria monocytogenes
  • D. Salmonella typhi and Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clostridium tetani and Bacillus anthracis. Both bacteria produce exotoxins that damage host tissues. Clostridium tetani produces tetanospasmin, which causes muscle rigidity in tetanus. Bacillus anthracis produces anthrax toxins, leading to tissue damage and systemic effects.

Explanation:
- Choice B (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) primarily cause infections through other mechanisms and do not produce exotoxins that damage host tissues.
- Choice C (Streptococcus pneumoniae and Listeria monocytogenes) are known for causing infections but not primarily through exotoxins that damage host tissues.
- Choice D (Salmonella typhi and Mycobacterium tuberculosis) cause diseases through different mechanisms and do not produce exotoxins that directly damage host tissues.