microbiology basic and clinical principles test bank Related

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Which of the following methods can be used for diagnosis of respiratory tract infections

  • A. Culture of samples from the respiratory tract
  • B. Immunofluorescence
  • C. PCR
  • D. All are correct
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All are correct. Culture of samples from the respiratory tract can identify specific pathogens, Immunofluorescence can detect viral antigens, and PCR can amplify and detect specific DNA/RNA sequences. Using all methods together provides a comprehensive approach for diagnosing respiratory tract infections. Culture alone may miss fastidious organisms, Immunofluorescence has limitations in sensitivity, and PCR requires specific primers. Therefore, combining these methods increases the likelihood of accurate diagnosis by covering a range of pathogens and improving sensitivity and specificity.