Clinical Microbiology Hardest Exam! Quiz

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1. What bacteria causes Diptheria?

Explanation

Corynebacterium diphtheriae is the bacteria that causes Diptheria. This bacterium produces a toxin that can cause a thick, gray coating to form in the throat and can lead to difficulty breathing, heart problems, and even death if left untreated.

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About This Quiz
Clinical Microbiology Hardest Exam! Quiz - Quiz

Are you ready for this Clinical Microbiology most challenging exam quiz? There are many bacteria, parasites, and viruses that attack the body in a person’s life. A microbiologist is responsible for taking samples from a patient and examining them to know the root cause of illness and come up with... see morea diagnosis as to what one is ailing from and how to treat it. This quiz will test your understanding of some microbiology facts and act as a refresher to know what to read on. see less

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2. Function of Fluoroquinolones

Explanation

Fluoroquinolones function by inhibiting DNA Gyrase, which leads to the fracturing of DNA and ultimately bacterial cell death. They primarily target Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, they target Gram-positive bacteria by inhibiting Topoisomerase IV, which prevents the separation of daughter strands and causes DNA fracturing. This mechanism of action specifically targets bacterial DNA and disrupts its synthesis, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria.

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3. Toxins with adenylate cyclase activity have an immediate effect on host cells that promote bacterial invasion by causing increased levels of cyclic AMP and disruption of cell permeability.

Explanation

Toxins with adenylate cyclase activity can have an immediate effect on host cells by increasing the levels of cyclic AMP and disrupting cell permeability. This can promote bacterial invasion by weakening the host cell's defenses and allowing the bacteria to enter and infect the cell more easily. Therefore, the statement that toxins with adenylate cyclase activity have an immediate effect on host cells that promote bacterial invasion is true.

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4. What bacteria causes Scarlet Fever?

Explanation

Streptococcus pyogenes is the correct answer because it is the bacteria responsible for causing Scarlet Fever. Scarlet Fever is a bacterial infection that is characterized by a red rash, high fever, sore throat, and strawberry tongue. Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus, is a common bacterium that can cause various infections, including strep throat, impetigo, and cellulitis. It produces toxins that cause the characteristic symptoms of Scarlet Fever. Staph aureus, Clostridium tetani, and Corynebacterium diptheriae are not associated with Scarlet Fever.

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5. What bacteria causes Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Explanation

Staph aureus is the bacteria that causes Toxic Shock Syndrome. This bacterium produces toxins that can lead to the symptoms of the syndrome, including high fever, rash, low blood pressure, and organ failure. Staph aureus is commonly found on the skin and in the nose, and can enter the body through cuts, surgical wounds, or tampon use. It is important to note that while Strep pyogenes can cause other types of infections, it is not the bacteria responsible for Toxic Shock Syndrome.

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6. Staphylococcus is...

Explanation

Staphylococcus is classified as facultatively anaerobic because it has the ability to grow and survive in both the presence and absence of oxygen. This means that it can switch between aerobic respiration when oxygen is available and fermentation or anaerobic respiration when oxygen is not available. Staphylococcus is a versatile bacterium that can adapt to different environments, making it capable of causing infections in various parts of the body.

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7. Function of Metronidazole

Explanation

Metronidazole functions by passively diffusing into the cytoplasm of bacteria in an anaerobic environment. Once inside, it is reduced to form a nitroso free radical. This free radical then interacts with the DNA of the bacteria, inhibiting its synthesis and causing fragmentation. As a result, the bacteria are unable to replicate and eventually die. This mechanism of action specifically targets anaerobic bacteria.

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8. How does Chloramphenicol function?

Explanation

Chloramphenicol functions by irreversibly binding to the 50s subunit of the ribosome. This binding inhibits the activity of peptidyl transferase, an enzyme responsible for forming peptide bonds during protein synthesis. By inhibiting this enzyme, chloramphenicol effectively prevents the elongation of protein synthesis.

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9. Function of DNA Gryrase

Explanation

DNA gyrase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in DNA replication and maintenance. It is responsible for reversing the twists in the DNA strand, thereby relieving the stress caused by the coiling of the DNA molecule. This action allows the DNA to unwind and become more relaxed, making it easier for other enzymes, such as helicase, to access the DNA and perform their respective functions. By reversing the twists and reducing the tension in the DNA strand, DNA gyrase helps to ensure efficient DNA replication and transcription processes.

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10. How does Mupirocin function?

Explanation

Mupirocin functions by inhibiting isoleucine synthetase, which is an enzyme responsible for binding isoleucine to tRNA. By preventing this binding, mupirocin prevents the incorporation of isoleucine into the growing peptide chain during protein synthesis. This ultimately disrupts the normal functioning of bacterial cells and inhibits their growth.

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11. How does Linezolid function?

Explanation

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12. Function of Helicase

Explanation

Helicase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in DNA replication. It unwinds the double-stranded DNA molecule by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs, allowing the two strands to separate. This process occurs after topoisomerase has relieved the tension in the DNA molecule by cutting and rejoining the strands. By unwinding the DNA chain, helicase prepares the template strands for the binding of DNA polymerase and the synthesis of new DNA strands during replication. Therefore, the correct answer states that helicase unwinds the DNA chain after topoisomerase has completed its function.

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13. How do Ketolides function?

Explanation

The correct answer states that ketolides function by blocking the ribosomal exit tunnel, which leads to the termination of peptide synthesis. This means that ketolides prevent the newly synthesized peptide from being released from the ribosome, ultimately stopping the process of protein synthesis.

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14. Name one Invasin used by Vibrio Cholerae and Shigella dysenteriae

Explanation

Neuraminidase is an enzyme used by both Vibrio Cholerae and Shigella dysenteriae as an invasin. It helps these bacteria invade and colonize the host cells by breaking down the protective mucous layer that covers the surface of the cells. By breaking down this layer, the bacteria can attach to and penetrate the host cells more easily, leading to infection.

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15. All of the following are Invasins used by Clostridium perfringens EXCEPT

Explanation

Streptokinase is not an invasin used by Clostridium perfringens. Invasins are proteins produced by bacteria that aid in their invasion and spread within the host's tissues. Collagenase, phospholipases, and hyaluronidase are all invasins used by Clostridium perfringens. Collagenase breaks down the framework of muscles, facilitating gas gangrene. Phospholipases hydrolyze phospholipids in cell membranes. Hyaluronidase attacks the interstitial cement of connective tissue by depolymerizing hyaluronic acid. However, streptokinase is not produced by Clostridium perfringens and does not play a role in its invasion or spread.

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16. What causes Scalded Skin Syndrome?

Explanation

Scalded Skin Syndrome is caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria. This bacteria produces toxins that lead to the breakdown of the skin's outer layer, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of the syndrome. Staphylococcus aureus is commonly found on the skin and can enter the body through cuts, burns, or other openings in the skin. It is important to promptly treat and manage Scalded Skin Syndrome to prevent further complications and spread of the infection.

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17. How do Aminoglycosides function?

Explanation

Aminoglycosides function by binding to the 30s subunit of the ribosome in an energy-dependent manner. This binding can sometimes be irreversible and disrupts the formation of the ribosome-mRNA complex. As a result, errors in translation occur and translocation, the movement of the ribosome along the mRNA strand, is blocked. This ultimately leads to the inhibition of protein synthesis.

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18. Function of Sulfonamides

Explanation

Sulfonamides are structurally similar to PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), and they function by competitively binding to dihydropteroate synthase. This binding prevents the synthesis of DNA and proteins. By inhibiting this enzyme, sulfonamides interfere with the production of tetrahydrofolic acid, an essential component for DNA synthesis. This disruption in DNA synthesis ultimately leads to the death of bacteria.

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19. How do Streptogramins work?

Explanation

Streptogramins work by irreversibly binding to the 50s subunit of the ribosome. Group A of streptogramins prevents peptide bond formation during elongation, while Group B causes premature dissociation of peptidyl-tRNA from the ribosome. This disruption in the ribosome's function ultimately inhibits protein synthesis.

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20. How do Macrolides function?

Explanation

Macrolides function by reversibly binding to the 50s subunit of the ribosome. This binding prevents the peptidyl transferase activity, which is responsible for the formation of peptide bonds during protein synthesis. Additionally, the binding inhibits the translocation of tRNA from the A site to the P site, interrupting the elongation of protein synthesis.

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21. Which requires anaerobic coverage in the colon?

Explanation

Bacteroides, Clostridium, Fusobacterium, and Peptostreptococcus all require anaerobic coverage in the colon. These bacteria are part of the normal flora of the colon and thrive in an environment with little to no oxygen. They play important roles in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates and the production of short-chain fatty acids. Anaerobic coverage is necessary to target and eliminate these bacteria in case of infection or overgrowth, as they can cause serious diseases such as abscesses, sepsis, and colitis.

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22. Function of Trimethoprim

Explanation

Trimethoprim functions by blocking the production of tetrahydrofolic acid, which is essential for the synthesis of DNA and proteins in bacteria. It achieves this by binding to and reversibly inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. This inhibition disrupts the folate pathway, preventing the synthesis of tetrahydrofolic acid and ultimately inhibiting bacterial growth. By targeting this specific enzyme, trimethoprim selectively affects bacteria without harming human cells, making it an effective antibiotic for treating bacterial infections.

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23. Where does Streptococcus pneumonia normally cause infection?

Explanation

Streptococcus pneumoniae normally causes infection in the oropharynx and nasopharynx. These are the areas where the bacteria commonly reside and can cause infections such as pneumonia, sinusitis, and ear infections. The bacteria can be transmitted through respiratory droplets and can colonize in these areas, leading to infection if the immune system is compromised or if the bacteria overgrow.

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24. Where is Bacteroides found?

Explanation

Bacteroides is a genus of bacteria that is commonly found in various parts of the human body. It is known to be present in the colon, which is the largest part of the large intestine. Bacteroides can also be found in the small intestine, which is the part of the digestive system located between the stomach and the large intestine. Additionally, Bacteroides can be found in the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat that is behind the mouth and nasal cavity. It can also be found in the vagina, which is the internal reproductive organ in females. Finally, Bacteroides can be found in the distal urethra, which is the part of the urethra that is closest to the external opening.

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25. How do Tetracyclines and Glycylcyclines function?

Explanation

Tetracyclines and Glycylcyclines function by binding to the 30s subunit of the ribosome. This binding inhibits the binding of aminoacyl-tRNA to the A site, which is necessary for the elongation of protein synthesis. As a result, the process of translation is interrupted, leading to errors in protein synthesis. This explanation aligns with the given answer option.

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26. Where is Bacteroides found?

Explanation

Distal urethra

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27. Which requires anaerobic coverage in the small intestine?

Explanation

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28. How do Clindamycin and other Lincosamides function?

Explanation

Clindamycin and other Lincosamides function by reversibly binding to the 50s subunit of the ribosome. This binding inhibits the translocation of tRNA from the A site to the P site, which leads to the premature dissociation of the peptidyl-tRNA from the ribosome. This disruption in the normal process of translocation and elongation of protein synthesis ultimately inhibits bacterial growth and replication.

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29. In what order do these occur?

Explanation

The correct order of these events is as follows: Topoisomerase, Helicase, Tetrahydrofolic Acid, RNA Polymerase, DNA Polymerase, DNA Ligase, DNA Gyrase, and Topoisomerase IV. Topoisomerase is responsible for relieving the tension in the DNA helix, followed by Helicase which unwinds the DNA strands. Tetrahydrofolic Acid is involved in the synthesis of nucleotides, while RNA Polymerase transcribes DNA into RNA. DNA Polymerase then synthesizes new DNA strands, and DNA Ligase joins the fragments together. DNA Gyrase helps in the supercoiling of DNA, and Topoisomerase IV separates the DNA strands after replication.

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30. Which requires Anaerobic coverage in the oropharynx?

Explanation

Peptostreptococcus, Fusobacterium, Bacteroides, and Actinomyces are all anaerobic bacteria that can be found in the oropharynx. These bacteria do not require oxygen to survive and can thrive in environments with low oxygen levels. They are commonly associated with infections in the oral cavity and can cause conditions such as dental abscesses, periodontal disease, and tonsillitis. Therefore, anaerobic coverage is necessary to effectively treat infections caused by these bacteria in the oropharynx.

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31. Which are obligate anaerobes?

Explanation

Actinomyces, Bacteroides, Clostridium, Fusobacterium, and Peptostreptococcus are obligate anaerobes. Obligate anaerobes are microorganisms that cannot survive in the presence of oxygen and can only grow in the absence of oxygen. These bacteria lack the enzymes necessary to detoxify reactive oxygen species, which are produced during aerobic respiration. Therefore, they rely on anaerobic respiration or fermentation for energy production.

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32. Which commonly cause infection in the colon?

Explanation

The given correct answer includes several types of bacteria and fungi that commonly cause infection in the colon. Bacteroides, Clostridium, Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus, Fusobacterium, Peptostreptococcus, and Candida are all known to be pathogens that can infect the colon. These microorganisms can cause various types of infections such as colitis, diverticulitis, and other gastrointestinal disorders. It is important to identify and treat these infections promptly to prevent further complications.

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33. Function of Dapsone

Explanation

Dapsone functions by competitively binding to dihydropteroate synthase, which is involved in the synthesis of DNA and proteins. This structural similarity to PABA allows dapsone to effectively block the enzyme's activity, preventing the production of DNA and proteins. This inhibition of essential cellular processes ultimately leads to the death of bacteria.

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34. Which of the following cause premature dissociation of peptidyl-tRNA from the ribosome?

Explanation

Macrolides, clindamycin, and streptogramins cause premature dissociation of peptidyl-tRNA from the ribosome. These antibiotics bind to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, inhibiting the translocation step of protein synthesis. This prevents the elongation of the polypeptide chain and leads to premature dissociation of the peptidyl-tRNA from the ribosome. This disruption in protein synthesis ultimately inhibits bacterial growth and helps in the treatment of bacterial infections.

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35. Where does Pseudomonas normally cause infection?

Explanation

Pseudomonas normally causes infection in the outer ear. This is known as otitis externa or swimmer's ear. It is an infection of the ear canal, typically caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or bathing, creating a moist environment where Pseudomonas can thrive. Symptoms include pain, itching, redness, and discharge from the ear. Treatment usually involves antibiotic ear drops and keeping the ear dry.

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36. What is a common cause of infection in the nasopharynx?

Explanation

Staph aureus and Strep pneumonia are both common causes of infection in the nasopharynx. Staph aureus is a bacterium that can cause various infections, including respiratory infections, while Strep pneumonia is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia and can also infect the upper respiratory tract. Both bacteria can easily spread through respiratory droplets, making them common culprits for nasopharyngeal infections. Staph epidermidis, Haemophilus, and Niesseria are also bacteria that can cause infections, but they are not as commonly associated with nasopharyngeal infections as Staph aureus and Strep pneumonia.

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37. Where is Lactobacillus usually found?

Explanation

Lactobacillus is usually found in various parts of the body, including the small intestine, colon, oropharynx, distal urethra, vagina, and even on the skin, nasopharynx, conjunctiva, and ear. These locations are known to have a microbiota that includes Lactobacillus, which helps maintain the balance of bacteria and supports various physiological functions in these areas.

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38. Match the following:
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39. Where is Actinomyces found?

Explanation

Actinomyces is a genus of bacteria that is commonly found in the oropharynx and vagina. These bacteria are part of the normal flora in these areas and do not usually cause any harm. However, under certain conditions, Actinomyces can cause infections, particularly in the oropharynx where it can lead to a condition called actinomycosis. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the presence of Actinomyces in these locations.

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40. Where is Staphylococcus epidermidis found?

Explanation

Staphylococcus epidermidis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found on the skin, in the ears, on the conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids), in the nasopharynx (the upper part of the throat behind the nose), in the oropharynx (the middle part of the throat behind the mouth), and in the distal urethra (the end part of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body). It is not typically found in the small intestine, colon, or vagina.

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41. Where is Staph aureus found?

Explanation

Staph aureus can be found in various locations in the body including the skin, conjunctiva (the mucous membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids), nasopharynx (the upper part of the throat behind the nose), oropharynx (the middle part of the throat behind the mouth), large intestine, and small intestine. These locations provide suitable environments for the growth and colonization of Staph aureus.

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42. What are the common causes of infection in the oropharynx?

Explanation

The common causes of infection in the oropharynx include Moraxella catarrhalis, Viridans strep, Staph aureus, Strep Pyogenes, Strep pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria, Bacteroides, and Actinomyces. These organisms are commonly found in the oropharynx and can cause various infections such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, and abscesses. It is important to identify the causative organism in order to provide appropriate treatment.

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43. What commonly causes infection in the distal urethra?

Explanation

Infection in the distal urethra can be commonly caused by Enterobacteriaceae, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, and Candidia. These are all types of bacteria and fungi that can infect the urethra and cause symptoms such as pain, burning sensation during urination, and discharge. These microorganisms can enter the urethra through sexual activity, poor hygiene, or other means of contamination. It is important to identify and treat the specific causative agent to effectively manage the infection.

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44. Where is Corynebacterium found?

Explanation

Corynebacterium can be found in various locations in the human body, including the distal urethra, colon, oropharynx, and nasopharynx. These bacteria are part of the normal flora in these areas and do not typically cause harm. The presence of Corynebacterium in these locations is important for maintaining a healthy microbial balance and preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

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45. Match the following:
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46. Where is Clostridium found?

Explanation

Clostridium is a type of bacteria that can be found in various parts of the body. It is commonly found in the small intestine, large intestine, and vagina. In the small intestine, Clostridium can cause infections such as food poisoning. In the large intestine, it is a normal part of the gut flora but can sometimes cause infections such as Clostridium difficile colitis. In the vagina, Clostridium can be present as a part of the normal vaginal flora but can also cause infections such as bacterial vaginosis.

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47. What commonly cause infection in the small intestine?

Explanation

Bacteroides, Candidia, Clostridium, and Enterobacteriaceae commonly cause infection in the small intestine. These microorganisms are known to be opportunistic pathogens that can cause various types of infections, including gastrointestinal infections. Bacteroides is a normal part of the gut microbiota but can cause infection if it overgrows or enters other parts of the body. Candida is a type of yeast that can cause infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Clostridium is a genus of bacteria that includes several species known to cause intestinal infections, such as Clostridium difficile. Enterobacteriaceae is a family of bacteria that includes many common pathogens, such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella, which can cause intestinal infections.

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48. Match the following:
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What bacteria causes Diptheria?
Function of Fluoroquinolones
Toxins with adenylate cyclase activity have an immediate effect on...
What bacteria causes Scarlet Fever?
What bacteria causes Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Staphylococcus is...
Function of Metronidazole
How does Chloramphenicol function?
Function of DNA Gryrase
How does Mupirocin function?
How does Linezolid function?
Function of Helicase
How do Ketolides function?
Name one Invasin used by Vibrio Cholerae and Shigella dysenteriae
All of the following are Invasins used by Clostridium perfringens...
What causes Scalded Skin Syndrome?
How do Aminoglycosides function?
Function of Sulfonamides
How do Streptogramins work?
How do Macrolides function?
Which requires anaerobic coverage in the colon?
Function of Trimethoprim
Where does Streptococcus pneumonia normally cause infection?
Where is Bacteroides found?
How do Tetracyclines and Glycylcyclines function?
Where is Bacteroides found?
Which requires anaerobic coverage in the small intestine?
How do Clindamycin and other Lincosamides function?
In what order do these occur?
Which requires Anaerobic coverage in the oropharynx?
Which are obligate anaerobes?
Which commonly cause infection in the colon?
Function of Dapsone
Which of the following cause premature dissociation of peptidyl-tRNA...
Where does Pseudomonas normally cause infection?
What is a common cause of infection in the nasopharynx?
Where is Lactobacillus usually found?
Match the following:
Where is Actinomyces found?
Where is Staphylococcus epidermidis found?
Where is Staph aureus found?
What are the common causes of infection in the oropharynx?
What commonly causes infection in the distal urethra?
Where is Corynebacterium found?
Match the following:
Where is Clostridium found?
What commonly cause infection in the small intestine?
Match the following:
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