Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.

BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

Questions:

1. The most common cause of Urinary Tract Infection.

A. Streptococci
B. Diphtheroids
C. Staphylococci
D. Coliforms
Answer: D; Coliforms

A. Streptococci:
Among the gram-positive cocci, the most important human pathogens (and the infections they
commonly cause) are Staphylococcus aureus (skin and soft tissue infections, bacteremia, toxic
shock syndrome), Streptococcus pyogenes (pharyngitis and its nonsuppurative complications,
skin and soft tissue infections), Streptococcus agalactiae (neonatal bacteremia and meningitis),
Streptococcus pneumoniae (community-acquired pneumonia, meningitis).

Reference: McPherson, R. A., Pincus, M. R., & Henry, J. B. (2017). Henry's clinical diagnosis
and management by laboratory methods (23rd ed) page 1114. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier.

B. Diphteroids
The corynebacteria—or diphtheroids, as they are sometimes called— appear in the Gram-
stained smear as slightly curved, gram-positive rods with nonparallel sides and sometimes wider
ends, giving a clubbed appearance. Most are rarely pathogenic in humans. At the initial site of
infection on the epithelial cells of the tonsils and oropharynx, C. diphtheriae elaborates an
exotoxin that causes local cell necrosis and subsequent inflammation.

Reference: McPherson, R. A., Pincus, M. R., & Henry, J. B. (2017). Henry's clinical diagnosis
and management by laboratory methods (23rd ed) page 1123. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier.

C. Staphylococci
Among the gram-positive cocci, the most important human pathogens (and the infections they
commonly cause) are Staphylococcus aureus (skin and soft tissue infections, bacteremia, toxic
shock syndrome), Streptococcus pyogenes (pharyngitis and its nonsuppurative complications,
skin and soft tissue infections), Streptococcus agalactiae (neonatal bacteremia and meningitis),
Streptococcus pneumoniae (community-acquired pneumonia, meningitis).

Reference: McPherson, R. A., Pincus, M. R., & Henry, J. B. (2017). Henry's clinical diagnosis
and management by laboratory methods (23rd ed) page 1114. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier.

D. Coliforms:
E. coli is widely recognized as the most common cause of UTIs in humans. The E. coli strains
that cause UTIs usually originate in the large intestine as resident biota and can exist either as
the predominant E. coli population or as a small part of the E. coli strains in the large intestine.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

2. Slimy or mucoid colonies will indicate that the organism is a/an:

A. Psychrophilic
B. Capnophilic
C. Encapsulated
D. Beta hemolytic

Answer: C; Encapsulated

A. Psychrophilic
Bacteria that grow best at cold temperatures are called psychrophiles (optimal growth at 10° to
20° C). Bacteria that grow optimally at moderate temperatures are called mesophiles (optimal
growth at 20° to 40° C). Bacteria that grow best at high temperatures are called thermophiles
(optimal growth at 50° to 60° C).

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Capnophilic
Capnophilic organisms require an atmosphere enriched with extra carbon dioxide (5% to 10%);
an example is Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Because many bacteria grow better in the presence of
increased carbon dioxide, diagnostic microbiology laboratories often maintain their aerobic
incubators at a 5% to 10% carbon dioxide level.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Encapsulated
The capsule offers the organism protection against phagocytosis and antimicrobial absorption,
contributing to its virulence. The capsule is also responsible for the moist, mucoid colonies
characteristic of K. pneumoniae.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Beta hemolytic
On Sheep’s Blood Agar, hemolysis observed in the medium immediately surrounding or
underneath the colony is a reaction caused by enzymatic or toxin activity of bacteria. Hemolysis
(e.g., α, β, or no hemolysis with other colony characteristics) on SBA is helpful in presumptive
identification, particularly of streptococci and enterococci. Most common example of hemolysis is
Beta hemolysis which means complete clearing of erythrocytes in SBA around or under the
colonies (because of the complete lysis of RBCs).

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

3. Differentiates staphylococci from micrococci

A. Taxo A disk method
B. Microdase test
C. Furazolidone
D. All of the above

Answer: D; All of the above

A. Taxo A disk method

Taxo A or Bacitracin Susceptibility test is used for presumptive identification and differentiation of
beta-hemolytic group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes– susceptible) from other beta-
hemolytic streptococci. It is also used to distinguish staphylococci species (resistant) from
micrococci (susceptible).

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 210.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

B. Microdase test
Microdase Test (Modified Oxidase) is used to differentiate gram-positive, catalase-positive cocci
(micrococci from staphylococci). The microdase test is a rapid method to differentiate
Staphylococcus from Micrococcus spp. by detection of the enzyme oxidase. In the presence of
atmospheric oxygen, the oxidase enzyme reacts with the oxidase reagent and cytochrome C to
form the colored compound, indophenol.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 230.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

C. Furazolidone
Disk tests are used for the determination of bacitracin and furazolidone resistance; for bacitracin,
susceptible > 10 mm; for furazolidone, susceptible > 15 mm. They are usually used to
differentiate the Microccus spp. and related genera to staphylococci.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 255.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

D. All of the above

Comments Regarding Specific Organisms: Micrococcus spp. and related genera are (1) not
lysed with lysostaphin, (2) resistant to the antibiotic furazolidone, (3) susceptible to 0.04 U of
bacitracin, and (4) microdase-positive; they usually will only grow aerobically. In contrast,
staphylococci are (1) lysed with lysostaphin, (2) resistant to 0.04 U of bacitracin, (3) susceptible
to furazolidone, (4) microdase-negative, and (5) facultatively anaerobic.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 255.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

4. The most common cause of septic arthritis in children.

A. Osteomyelitis
B. Osteomyelolitis
C. Osteopancitis
D. Rheumatoid arthritis

Answer: A; Osteomyelitis

A. Osteomyelitis
Septic arthritis is frequently caused by S. aureus in children, especially with trauma to the
extremities. Staphylococcal osteomyelitis occurs as a manifestation secondary to bacteremia.
Bacteria may lodge in the diaphysis of the long bones and establish an infection. Septic arthritis
can also occur in patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, recent joint
surgery, skin infections, or intravenous drug abuse.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Osteomyelolitis
There is no word osteomyelolitis

C. Osteopancitis
Osteopancitis does not exist.

D. Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, noninfectious, systemic inflammatory disease that primarily
affects the joints. Women are affected 2-3 times more often than men.

Reference: Ciulla, A and Lehman, D. (2010). SUCCESS! in Clinical Laboratory Science (4th Ed.)
page 436. New Jersey: Pearsons Education Inc.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

5. It enhances invasion and survival in tissue

A. Hyaluronidase
B. Coagulase
C. Catalase
D. Lipase

Answer: A; Hyaluronidase

A. Hyaluronidase
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme, also referred to as spreading factor, that solubilizes the ground
substance of mammalian connective tissues (hyaluronic acid). Some organisms produce soluble
substances, such as proteases and hyaluronidases that liquefy the hyaluronic acid of the
connective tissue matrix, helping bacteria to spread in tissues, promoting the dissemination of
infection.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Coagulase
Coagulase is a clotting enzyme (staphylocoagulase) useful in differentiating coagulase-positive
staphylococci, such as Staphylococcus aureus, from coagulase-negative staphylococci.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Catalase
Catalase is an enzyme present in staphylococci; useful for distinguishing staphylococci from
streptococci. Strict aerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria that use oxygen have the enzymes
superoxide dismutase and/or catalase to protect them from superoxide anions and their toxic
derivatives.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Lipase
Lipase catalyzes the hydrolysis of ester linkages between fatty acids and glycerol of triglycerides
and phospholipids. Common to S. aureus and CoNS. Degrades lipids on skin surface making it
more susceptible to bacterial entry into epidermal layers.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

6. Differentiates S. aureus from S. intermedius

A. Voges-proskauer test
B. Coagulase Test
C. Polymixin sensitivity test
D. Mannitol fermentation test

Answer: A; Voges-proskauer test

A. Voges-proskauer test
Some laboratory scientists get more reliable results differentiating S. aureus (positive) from S.
intermedius (negative) with the Voges-Proskauer (VP) test. In the VP test, a positive result is the
formation of acetoin from glucose or pyruvate. S. intermedius is an animal pathogen, and most
human infections are associated with animal bites.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Coagulase Test
The coagulase test is used to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus (positive) from coagulase-
negative staphylococci (negative).

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 217.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

C. Polymixin sensitivity test

Identification of species using susceptibility testing is still useful in the differentiation of
S.saprophyticus (novobiocin resistant) from other CoNS species (novobiocin sensitive). In
addition, polymyxin B resistance is common in clinical isolates of S. aureus, S. epidermidis, S.
hyicus, S. chromogenes, and some strains of S. lugdunensis. Resistance is indicated by an
inhibition zone diameter of ,10 mm.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 259.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

D. Mannitol fermentation test

Mannitol salt agar is highly selective and differential. It is used for the isolation and identification
of staphylococcal species. The 7.5% concentration of sodium chloride results in inhibition of
most bacteria other than staphylococci. Mannitol fermentation, as indicated by a change in the
phenol red indicator, aids in the differentiation of staphylococcal species because most S.aureus
isolates ferment mannitol (changing the color of the medium to yellow). And most coagulase-
negative staphylococci are unable to ferment mannitol.

Reference: Ciulla, A and Lehman, D. (2010). SUCCESS! in Clinical Laboratory Science (4th Ed.)
page 436. New Jersey: Pearsons Education Inc.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

7. Small to medium-sized, non-hemolytic, nonpigmented, white opaque, pinhead colonies

A. S. aureus
B. S. epidermidis
C. S. saprophyticus
D. N. gonorrhea

Answer: B; S.epidermidis

A. S. aureus
S.aureus is medium to large (0.5-1.5 mm); smooth, entire, slightly raised, low convex, opaque;
most colonies pigmented creamy yellow; most colonies beta-hemolytic.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 253.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

B. S. epidermidis
S. epidermidis colonies are usually small- to medium-sized, opaque, nonhemolytic, gray-to-white
colonies.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 253.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

C. S. saprophyticus
S.saprophyticus forms large; entire, very glossy, smooth, opaque, butyrous, convex; usually
white but colonies can be yellow or orange.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 253.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

D. N. gonorrhea
Colonial appearance of N.gonorrhea on chocolate agar is small, grayish white, convex,
translucent, shiny colonies with either smooth or irregular margins; may be up to five different
colony types on primary plates.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 494.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

8. Neisseria to oxidase test?

A. Negative
B. Positive
C. None of the above
D. All of the above

Answer: B; Positive

A. Negative

B. Positive
Most Neisseria spp. are aerobic, nonmotile, non–spore-forming, gram-negative diplococci.
Neisseria elongata, Neisseria weaveri, and Neisseria bacilliformis are known exceptions and are
rod shaped. All species are cytochrome oxidase and catalase positive except for N. elongata
subsp. nitroreducens and N.bacilliformis, which are catalase negative.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. None of the above

D. All of the above

9. Strep that is a normal flora of human intestine

A. Enterococcus group
B. Pyogenic group
C. Viridans group
D. Lactic group

Answer: A; Enterococcus group

A. Enterococcus group
The enterococci consist of gram-positive cocci that are natural inhabitants of the intestinal tracts
of humans and animals. The commonly identified species in clinical specimens are E. faecalis
and E. faecium.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Pyogenic group
Pyogenic streptococci produce pus; these organisms are mostly β-hemolytic and constitute most
of the Lancefield groups. Pyogenic streptococci isolated frequently from humans include
Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp.
equisimilis, and Streptococcus anginosus group (some species are α- hemolytic or
nonhemolytic).

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

C. Viridans group
Viridans streptococci are constituents of the normal microbiota of the upper respiratory tract, the
female genital tract, and the gastrointestinal tract. Viridans streptococci are oropharyngeal
commensals that are regarded as opportunistic pathogens.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Lactic group
Streptococci from dairy sources comprised of lactic division and included S.lactis and S.cremosis.

Reference: Bergey, D. H. 1., & Holt, J. G. (2000). Bergey's manual of determinative bacteriology.
9th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

10. Is an acute pyogenic infection of columnar and transitional epithelium

A. Anorectal infections
B. Gonorrhea
C. Pharyngitis
D. Conjunctivitis

Answer: B; Gonorrhea

A. Anorectal infections
Anorectal infection caused by HSV is associated with severe anal pain, rectal discharge,
enesmus, and systemic signs and symptoms such as fever, chills, and headaches

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 1005.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

B. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is an acute pyogenic infection of nonciliated columnar and transitional epithelium;
infection can be established at any site where these cells are found. Gonococcal infections are
mostly acquired through sexual contact and occur primarily in the urethra, endocervix, anal canal,
pharynx, and conjunctiva.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis is an upper respiratory tract infection affecting the pharynx that may be caused by a
virus or bacterium; acute bacterial pharyngitis is often caused by Streptococcus pyogenes and is
characterized by sore throat, malaise, fever, and headache.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

D. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is the most common ocular complaint. It includes all age groups and occurs
worldwide. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

11. Is a chocolate agar with an enrichment supplement and antibiotics

A. TMA
B. Transport medium
C. BAP
D. MAC

Answer: A; Thayer Martin Agar

A. TMA
Thayer-Martin medium is a chocolate agar with an enrichment supplement (IsoVitaleX), and the
antimicrobials colistin (to inhibit gram-negative bacilli), nystatin (to inhibit yeast), and vancomycin
(to inhibit gram-positive bacteria).

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 493.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

B. Transport medium
Transport media Liquid or semisolid medium meant to preserve and maintain the integrity of the
specimen for the period between specimen collection and laboratory processing of the sample.
Stuart broth and Amies and Cary-Blair transport media are commonly used examples.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. BAP
A blood agar plate is differential media because it distinguishes between hemolytic and
nonhemolytic organism.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. MAC
MacConkey agar composed of peptone base with lactose; gram-positive organisms inhibited by
crystal violet and bile salts; neutral red as indicator.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 91. St.
Louis, Missouri: Elsevier
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

12. Usually found in the GIT of humans and animals, found to be the normal flora of human GI
A. Klebsiella
B. Staphylococcus
C. Enterobacter
D. Providencia

Answer: A or C; Klebsiella/ Enterobacter

A. Klebsiella
Klebsiella spp. (Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae, Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis,
Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella ozaenae, and Klebsiella variicola) are inhabitants of the
nasopharynx and gastrointestinal tract.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 336.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

B. Staphylococcus
Approximately 30% of the population carries S. aureus as resident flora, primarily in the anterior
nares.

Reference: Ciulla, A and Lehman, D. (2010). SUCCESS! in Clinical Laboratory Science (4th Ed.)
page 616. New Jersey: Pearsons Education Inc.

C. Enterobacter
Members of the genera Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Serratia, Pantoea, Cronobacter and Hafnia
belong to the tribe Klebsielleae. Members of these genera are usually found in the intestinal tract
of humans and animals or free-living in soil, water, and on plants.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Providencia
The genera Proteus, Morganella, and Providencia belong to the tribe Proteeae. They are widely
disseminated in the environment, are normal intestinal microbiota, and are recognized as
opportunistic pathogens.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

13. Opportunistic pathogen associated with nosocomial outbreaks

A. Enterobacter
B. Proteus
C. Morganella
D. Serratia

Answer: D;Serratia

A. Enterobacter
Enterobacter spp. are occasional clinical isolates that have been linked to respiratory tract
infections and wounds and isolated from blood.

Reference: Ciulla, A and Lehman, D. (2010). SUCCESS! in Clinical Laboratory Science (4th Ed.)
page 616. New Jersey: Pearsons Education Inc.

B. Proteus
Proteus spp. are responsible for 3% of all hospital-acquired infections in the United States,
particularly UTIs. They ascend the urinary tract, causing infections in both the lower and the
upper urinary tract.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Morganella
The genus Morganella has only one species, M. morganii; M. morganii is a documented cause of
UTI. It has also been identified as a cause of neonatal sepsis.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Serratia
Serratia spp. are opportunistic pathogens associated with outbreaks in health care settings.
Opportunistic and hospital-acquired infection, wound infections, septicemia, bacteriuria

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

14. Yersinia pestis is a parasite of

A. Birds
B. Cattle and swine
C. Rodents
D. Fleas

Answer: C; Rodents

Yersenia pestis’ TOM: From rodents to humans by the bite of flea vectors (Xenopsylla cheopis)
or by ingestion of contaminated animal tissues; during human epidemics of pneumonic (i.e.,
respiratory) disease, the organism can be spread directly from person-to-person by inhalation of
contaminated airborne droplets; rarely transmitted by handling or inhalation of infected animal
tissues or fluids.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 331.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

15. Brucella melitensis, Brucella abortus, Brucella suis may cause

A. Glanders
B. Undulant fever
C. Soft chancre
D. Relapsing fever

Answer: B; Undulant fever

A. Glanders
Glanders Disease caused by Burkholderia mallei.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Undulant Fever
Brucellosis is referred to by many other terms, including Mediterranean fever, Malta fever,
Gibraltar fever, Bang disease, Neapolitan fever, Cyprus fever, and undulant fever. The genus
name comes from Sir David Bruce, who, in 1887, was the first to describe these agents as the
cause of undulant fever.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Soft chancre
H. ducreyi, a strictly human pathogen, is the causative agent of chancroid. Chancroid is
commonly referred to as soft chancre, in contrast to the hard chancre of syphilis.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

D. Relapsing Fever
All pathogenic Borrelia are arthropod-borne. A number of borreliae, including Borrelia recurrentis
and Borrelia duttonii, cause relapsing fever.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

16. Malta fever is spread to many by means of goat’s milk infected with
A. B. abortus
B. B. melitensis
C. B. suis
D. All of the above

Answer: B; B. melitensis

Natural infection in humans occurs when bacteria are inhaled as aerosols; ingested in raw,
unpasteurized, infected milk or meat; or introduced into abrasions in skin or through contact with
conjunctival surfaces. It is called undulant fever, Malta fever, Bang’s disease, Gibraltar fever, and
Mediterranean fever. Species known to cause this disease; four species, which originate from
animal reservoirs, are pathogenic to humans, in descending order: Brucella melitensis (goats),
Brucella suis (swine), Brucella abortus (cattle), Brucella canis (canines).

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

17. Specimen used in laboratory diagnosis of enterobacteriaceae

A. Stool
B. Urine
C. Blood
D. All of the above

Answer: A; Stool

Members of the family Enterobacteriaceae are routinely isolated from stool cultures; complete
identification should be directed only toward true intestinal pathogens. Sputum cultures from
hospitalized patients may contain enteric organisms that may require complete identification.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

18. Haemophilus influenza requires media containing:

A. X factor
B. V factor
C. Both
D. Neither

Answer: C; Both

Based from Table 31-5: Key Biochemical and Physiologic Characteristics of Haemophilus spp.,
Haemophilus influenza needs both X factor and V factor. Species of the genus Haemophilus
require protoporphyrin IX (a metabolic intermediate of the hemin biosynthetic pathway), referred
to as X factor and V factor, nicotine adenine dinucleotide (NAD), or nicotine adenine dinucleotide
phosphate (NADP) for in vitro growth.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 331.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

19. When glucose is utilized by a fermentative organism, the entire medium becomes acidic
(yellow) in 8-12 hours, however, the slant reverts to the alkaline (red) state because of the
oxidation of the fermentation products under aerobic conditions on the slant-formation of
CO2 and H2O and the oxidation of peptones in the medium.
A. The statement is true
B. The statement is false
C. Both
D. Neither

Answer: A; The statement is true

In TSI Agar: A glucose-fermenting organism turns the entire medium acidic (yellow) in 8 to 12
hours. The butt remains acidic after the recommended 18- to 24-hour incubation period because
of the presence of organic acids resulting from the fermentation of glucose under anaerobic
conditions in the butt of the tube. The slant, however, reverts to the alkaline (red) state because
of oxidation of the fermentation products under aerobic conditions on the slant. This change is a
result of the formation of CO2 and H2 O and the oxidation of peptones in the medium to alkaline
amines. When, in addition to glucose, lactose and/or sucrose are fermented, the large amount of
fermentation products formed on the slant neutralizes the alkaline amines and renders the slant
acidic (yellow), provided the reaction is read in 18 to 24 hours.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 244.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

20. TSI reaction should never be ready beyond 24 hours of incubation because aerobic oxidation
of fermentation products from lactose and/or sucrose does proceed and the slant will
eventually revert to the alkaline state.
A. The statement is true
B. The statement is false
C. Both
D. Neither

Answer: A; The statement is true

Reactions in TSI should not be read beyond 24 hours of incubation, because aerobic oxidation
of the fermentation products from lactose and/or sucrose proceeds, and the slant eventually
reverts to the alkaline state.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 244.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

21. Whooping cough is caused by:

A. Haemophilus influenza
B. Friedlander’s bacillus
C. Bordetella pertussis
D. Koch-week’s bacillus

Answer: C; Bordertella pertussis

A. Haemophiluz influenza
Haemophilus influenzae has been the most common agent of bacteremia in children younger
than 2 years of age, and consequently it has been the most common cause of infectious arthritis
in these patients, followed by S. aureus.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 1050.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

C. Bordetella pertussis
B. pertussis, the primary pathogen of whooping cough, uses several mechanisms to overcome
the immune defenses of healthy individuals.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 960.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020

22. Gas gangrene is mostly associated with:

A. Clostridium septicum
B. Clostridium novyi
C. Clostridium perfringens
D. Clostridium histolyticum

Answer: C; Clostridium perfringens

C. perfringens, C. histolyticum, C. septicum, C. novyi, and C. bifermentans have all been

associated with myonecrosis. C. perfringens, however, is the most common cause. Under
favorable conditions, the organisms are able to grow, multiply, and release potent exotoxins. In
gas gangrene exotoxins, such as α-toxin produced by C. perfringens, cause necrosis of the
tissue and allow deeper penetration by the organisms.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

23. In solid media and thioglycollate broth, Clostridium tetani produces spores which are
A. Round & terminal
B. Oval eccentric
C. Oval & subterminal
D. Usually absent

Answer: A; Round & terminal

A. Round & terminal

A swarming, gram-positive, anaerobic bacillus with terminal spores is probably C. tetani. For
instance, the terminal spore of Clostridium tetani, the etiologic (causative) agent of tetanus, gives
the organism a characteristic tennis racquet–shaped or lollipop-shaped appearance. Also based
from the “Table 40-1 : Gram Stain Morphology, Colonial Appearance, and Other Distinguishing
Features of Common Anaerobic Bacteria”, C. tetani is Gram positive, becoming gram negative
after 24-hr incubation; occur singly or in pairs; spores oval and terminal or with drumstick or
tennis racket appearance.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 502.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

B. Oval eccentric
C.tetani’s spore is not oval and eccentric.

C. Oval & subterminal

Examples of Clostridium that have this type of spores are Clostridium septicum and Clostridium
botulinum. Clostridium botulinum is gram-positive, straight rods; occur singly or in pairs; spores
usually subterminal. While Clostridium septicum is gram positive in young cultures but becomes
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020
gram negative with age; stains unevenly; straight or curved rods; occur singly or in pairs; spores
subterminal, oval, and swell cells.

D. Usually absent
C.tetani has spores and it has terminal spores. For instance, the terminal spore of Clostridium
tetani gives the organism a characteristic tennis racquet–shaped or lollipop-shaped appearance.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

24. Rat-bite fever is caused by which of the following organisms:

A. Malleomyces mallei
B. Yersinia pestis
C. Streptobacillus moniliformis
D. Borrelia

Answer: C; Streptobacillus moniliformis

A. Malleomyces mallei
M.mallei, also known as Burkholderia mallei, causes glanders, a respiratory tract zoonosis
primarily affecting livestock such as horses, mules, and donkeys.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Yersinia pestis
Y. pestis infection occurs in three distinct clinical forms: bubonic plague, septicemic plague, and
pneumonic plague. Infections occur as a result of being bitten by an infected flea, handling
contaminated materials, or inhaling aerosolized plague bacteria.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Streptobacillus moniliformis
The single species of the genus, S. moniliformis, is a parasite of rats and causes one form of rat-
bite fever in humans.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Borrelia
Most species of Borrelia cause relapsing fever, with the notable exception several species in the
Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex that cause Lyme borreliosis. All pathogenic Borrelia are
arthropod-borne. A number of borreliae, including Borrelia recurrentis and Borrelia duttonii,
cause relapsing fever. The B. burgdorferi sensu lato complex causes a spectrum of syndromes
known as Lyme disease.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
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25. Spirochetes have:
A. Thick rigid walls
B. Thin, flexible walls
C. No walls
D. None of the above

Answer: B; Thin flexible walls

Answers A, C and D are not possible. The spirochetes are slender, flexuous, helix-shaped,
motile, unicellular bacteria ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 µm wide and from 5 to 20 µm long, with one or
more complete turns in the helix. They differ from other bacteria in that they have a flexible cell
wall around which several fibrils are wound.

References: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

26. The agent responsible for Rocky Mountain spotted fever is.
A. Rickettsia rickettsi
B. Chlamydiae trachomatis
C. Borrelia recurrentis
D. Chlamydia psittaci

Answer: A; Ricketssia rickettsi

27. The Weil-Felix is a serologic agglutination test which aids in the laboratory diagnosis of:
A. Chlamydia infection
B. Rickettsial infections
C. Certain viral infections
D. Rare parasitic infections

Answer: B; Rickettsial infections

28. Bacteria that grow in the absence of atmospheric (free) oxygen and obtain oxygen from
oxygen containing compounds are called?
A. Anaerobes
B. Aerobes
C. Capnophilic
D. Aerotolerants

Answer: D; Aerotolerants

29. Community Acquired Pneumonia

A. Escherichia coli
B. Citrobacter diversus
C. Klebsiella pneumoniae
D. Yersinia pestis

Answer: C; Klebsiella pneumoniae

30. Caused of Enteric fever

A. Salmonella typhii
B. Serratia marcescens
C. Proteus vulgaris
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BACTERIOLOGY
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D. Escherichia coli

Answer: A; Salmonella typhi

A. Salmonella typhii
Salmonella Typhi causes the most severe form of enteric fever, typhoid fever. Unlike the other
serotypes of Salmonella, humans are the only known host for this pathogen.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Serratia marcescens
S. marcescens is the species considered most significant clinically, and many clinical isolates
are nonpigmented. It has been found frequently in hospital-acquired infections of the urinary or
respiratory tract and in bacteremic outbreaks in nurseries and cardiac surgery and burn units.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

C. Proteus vulgaris
Proteus spp. are responsible for 3% of all hospital-acquired infections in the United States,
particularly UTIs. They ascend the urinary tract, causing infections in both the lower and the
upper urinary tract. They can infect the proximal kidney tubules and can cause acute
glomerulonephritis, particularly in patients with urinary tract defects or catheterization.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

D. Escherichia coli
Pathogenic E. coli strains are grouped into diarrheagenic or intestinal and extraintestinal
pathogens. Isolates of extraintestinal E. coli strains have been grouped into two categories:
UPEC and MNEC. UPEC strains are the major cause of E. coli–associated community-acquired
urinary tract infections. MNEC causes neonatal meningitis that results in high morbidity and
mortality

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

31. He observed that boiled mutton broth eventually became cloudy with microorganism.
A. Aristotle
B. Rudolf Virchow
C. John Needham
D. Anton Van Leeuwenhoek

Answer: C; John Needham

A. Aristotle
Aristotle (384-322 B.C.) taught that animals might originate spontaneously from the soil, plants,
or other unlike animals, and his influence was still strongly felt in the seventeenth century.
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BACTERIOLOGY
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Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based
Approach (5th Ed) page 21.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

B. Rudolf Virchow
In the 19th century, Rudolf Virchow, often called the father of modern pathology, proposed that
injury to cells, the smallest living units in the body, is the basis of all disease. To this day, this
concept underlies all of pathology.

Reference: Rubin, E. & Strayer, D.S.(2012). Rubin’s Pathology (7th Ed). Philadelphia: Wolters
Kluwer Health.

C. John Needham
John Needham performed experiments (1713-1761), results supported concept of spontaneous
generation. He observed that boiled mutton broth eventually became cloudy with microorganism.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 32.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. Anton Van Leeuwenhoek

He was the first to observe and accurately record and report microorganisms (1632-1723). His
descriptions of protozoa were so accurate that many of the forms he described are easily
recognized today.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 19-32.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

32. Though that simpler invertebrates could arise form spontaneous generation.
A. Lazzaro Spallanzi
B. Rudolf Virchow
C. Aristotle
D. John Tyndall

Answer: C; Aristotle

A. Lazzaro Spallanzi
Lazaro Spallanzani (1729-1799) boiled beef broth for an hour and then sealed theilaska. No
microbes appeared following incubation. But his results, confirmed in repeated experiments,
failed to convince Needham, who insisted that air was essential to the spontaneous production
of microscopic beings and that it had been excluded from the flasks by sealing them.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 21-22.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

B. Rudolf Virchow
In the 19th century, Rudolf Virchow, often called the father of modern pathology, proposed that
injury to cells, the smallest living units in the body, is the basis of all disease. To this day, this
concept underlies all of pathology.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020
Reference: Rubin, E. & Strayer, D.S.(2012). Rubin’s Pathology (7th Ed). Philadelphia: Wolters
Kluwer Health.

C. Aristotle
The discovery of microbes spurred interest in the origin of living things, and argument and
speculation grew. As far as human beings were concerned, the Greek explanation that the
goddess Gaea was able to create people from stones and other inanimate objects had been
largely discarded. But even the astute Aristotle (384-322 B.C.) taught that animals might
originate spontaneously from the soil, plants, or other unlike animals, and his influence was still
strongly felt in the seventeenth century.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 21.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. John Tyndall
John Tyndall (1820-1893) conducted experiments in a specially designed box to prove that dust
carried the germs. He demonstrated that if no dust was present, sterile broth remained free of
microbial growth for indefinite periods.
Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based
Approach (5th Ed) page 23.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

33. Color of the AFB organism after acid fast staining.

A. Violet
B. Red
C. Fuchsia
D. Purple

Answer: B; Red

Acid-fast bacteria retain the primary stain and are red. Bacteria that are not acid-fast are blue.
However in gram staining technique, it places bacteria into one of two main groups: gram-
positive (blue to purple) or gram-negative (pink to red)

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

34. Which of the following is NOT true describing Robert Koch?

A. Use of phenol for treating surgical wounds
B. Discovered Bacillus anthracis
C. Established that first proof that bacteriaindeed cause disease
D. Developed culture media for observing growth of bacteria isolated from man

Answer: A ; Use of phenol for treating surgical wounds

35. Tuft/group of flagella on one end or both ends

A. Atrichous
B. Peritrichous
C. Amphitrichous
D. Lophotrichous
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BACTERIOLOGY
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Answer: D; Lophotrichous

A. Atrichous
Atrichous bacteria are lacking flagella.

Reference: http://www.vetbact.org/index.php?displayextinfo=82

B. Peritrichous
The entire cell surface may be covered with flagella or also known as peritrichous flagella.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 23. St.
Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

C. Amphitrichous
A single flagellum may reside at both ends of the cell or also known as amphitrichous flagella.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 23. St.
Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

D. Lophotrichous
Flagella may be present at both ends of the cell or also known as lophotrichous flagella.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 23. St.
Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

36. They resist extreme conditions like heat dryness, chemical treatment, radiation and
dessication
A. Endospores
B. Plasmids
C. Inclusion bodies
D. Plasma membrane

Answer: A; Endospores

A. Endospores
Certain genera, such as Bacillus and Clostridium, produce endospores in response to harsh
environmental conditions. Endospores are small, dormant (inactive), asexual spores that develop
inside the bacterial cell as a means of survival.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Plasmids
Bacteria can also become toxigenic by acquiring a plasmid that carries the gene for a toxin. For
example, some strains of E. coil are able to cause diarrhea because they contain a plasmid
whose DNA codes for an enterotoxin. Another plasmid-mediated toxin is the enterotoxin made
by food-poisoning strains of S. aureus.
Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based
Approach (5th Ed) page 695.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
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C. Inclusion bodies
Inclusion bodies: Microscopic bodies, usually within body cells; thought to be virus particles in
morphogenesis.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed).New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. Plasma membrane

The cytoplasmic membrane also contains various enzymes involved in respiratory metabolism
and in synthesis of capsular and cell-wall components. In bacterial metabolism, the final stage of
respiration occurs through a series of oxidation-reduction electron transfer reactions that yield
the energy to drive oxidative phosphorylation; this in turn produces ATP. The enzymes involved
in electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation reside on the bacterial inner (cytoplasmic)
membrane/ plasma membrane.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 89.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

37. Site of respiration and photosynthesis

A. Plasma membrane
B. Cell wall
C. Cell envelope
D. Inclusion bodies

Answer: A; Plasma membrane

A. Plasma membrane

The cytoplasmic membrane also contains various enzymes involved in respiratory metabolism
and in synthesis of capsular and cell-wall components. In bacterial metabolism, the final stage of
respiration occurs through a series of oxidation-reduction electron transfer reactions that yield
the energy to drive oxidative phosphorylation; this in turn produces ATP. The enzymes involved
in electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation reside on the bacterial inner (cytoplasmic)
membrane/ plasma membrane.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 89.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

B. Cell wall
Cell wall is a very rigid structure that gives shape to the cell. Its main function is to prevent the
cell from expanding and eventually bursting because of uptake of water, since most bacteria live
in hypotonic environments (i.e., environments having a lower osmotic pressure than exists within
the bacterial cells).

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 84.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

C. Cell envelope
The cell envelope represents the outermost layer of the bacterial cell which has as
general functions the protection of the cell, communication with the environment, maintenance
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BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020
of cellular shape, stability and rigidity of the cell, as well as allowing appropriate metabolism,
growth and division of the cell.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed) page 80.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. Inclusion bodies
Inclusion bodies: Microscopic bodies, usually within body cells; thought to be virus particles in
morphogenesis.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed).New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

38. Examination of unstained bacteria that uses a drop of suspension in a clean glass slide
sealing it with a paraffin wax to prevent evaporation
A. Hanging drop method
B. Wet mount
C. Smear
D. All of the above

Answer: A; Hanging drop method

A. Hanging drop method

To reduce the rate of evaporation and exclude the effect of air currents, the drop may be ringed
with petroleum jelly or a similar material to provide a seal between the slide and cover slip. A
special slide with a circular concave depression is sometimes used for examination of wet
preparations. It is called Hanging drop technique.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 64.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

B. Wet mount
A wet mount is made by placing a drop of fluid containing the organisms onto a glass slide and
covering the drop with a cover slip.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 64.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

C. Smear
Smear is a thin layer of material, e.g.; a bacterial culture spread on a glass slide for microscopic
examination. It is also called a film.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach (5th Ed).New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. All of the above

Even wet mount and hanging drop have same principle, their techniques/methods are different.
So, this is not the possible answer and smear is a product made out from smearing technique
(could be blood smear, sputum smear, etc.)
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BACTERIOLOGY
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39. The Great Founder/s of Microbiology

A. Louis Pasteur
B. Robert Koch
C. Anton Van Leeuwenhoek
D. Pasteur and Koch

Answer: C; Anton Van Leeuwenhoek

40. The following are basic dyes, except:

A. Eosin
B. Methylene blue
C. Carbol fuchsin
D. Safranin

Answer: A; Eosin

A. Eosin
Eosin is an acidic dye: it is negatively charged (general formula for acidic dyes is: Na+ dye-). It
stains basic (or acidophilic) structures red or pink. This is also sometimes termed 'eosinophilic'.
Thus, the cytoplasm is stained pink, by H&E staining.

Reference: Gregorios, J.H.(2017). Histopathologic Techniques page 299. Philippines:KATHA

Publishing Co. Inc.

B. Methylene blue
Basic dyes are where the active coloring substance is found in a basic component that combines
with the acid radical. An example of a basic nuclear stain is methylene blue, which may be used
both as an indicator and as a dye. It is very widely used in microbiology for bacterial staining.

Reference: Gregorios, J.H.(2017). Histopathologic Techniques page 290. Philippines:KATHA

Publishing Co. Inc.

C. Carbol fuchsin
Carbol fuchsin is an example of basic fuchsin dye. Basic fuchsin is a plasma stain utilized also
for deep staining of acid-fast organisms, for mitochondria, for differentiation of smooth muscles
with the use of picric acid.

Reference: Gregorios, J.H.(2017). Histopathologic Techniques page 302. Philippines:KATHA

Publishing Co. Inc.

D. Safranin
Safranin (or Safranin O) is a nuclear stain. It produces red nuclei, and is used primarily as a
counterstain. Safranin may also be used to give a yellow color to collagen.

Reference: Gregorios, J.H.(2017). Histopathologic Techniques page 311. Philippines:KATHA

Publishing Co. Inc.

41. Selective form of sterilization that kills vegetative form of bacteria but cannot kill spores
A. boiling
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B. sterilization
C. autoclaving
D. steaming

Answer: A; Boiling

42. The process of artificially coloring microorganisms with dyes in order to facilitate their study
under the microscope
A. staining
B. smear
C. dye
D. mordant

Answer: A; Staining

43. Microscope use for gross morphological features of bacteria, yeasts, molds and protozoa
A. Brightfield microscope
B. Electron microscope
C. Darkfield microscope
D. Polarizing microscope

Answer: A; Brightfield microscope

A. Brightfield microscope
Bright-field microscopy is used for gross morphological features of bacteria, yeasts, molds, algae
and protozoa.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

B. Electron microscope
Electron microscopy is used for examination of viruses and ultra-structure of microbial cells.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

C. Darkfield microscope
Dark-field microscopy is used for microorganisms that exhibit some characteristic morphological
feature in the living state and in fluid suspension, e.g., spirochetes.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. Polarizing microscope
Polarizing light is used with either transmitted and/or reflected light to view chemicals, rocks and
minerals.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

44. Microscope use for microorganisms that exhibit some characteristic morphological feature in
the living state and in fluid suspension
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BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020
A. Brightfield microscope
B. Electron microscope
C. Darkfield microscope
D. Polarizing microscope

Answer: C; Darkfield microscope

A. Brightfield microscope
Bright-field microscopy is used for gross morphological features of bacteria, yeasts, molds, algae
and protozoa.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

B. Electron microscope
Electron microscopy is used for examination of viruses and ultra-structure of microbial cells.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

C. Darkfield microscope
Dark-field microscopy is used for microorganisms that exhibit some characteristic morphological
feature in the living state and in fluid suspension, e.g., spirochetes.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

D. Polarizing microscope
Polarizing light is used with either transmitted and/or reflected light to view chemicals, rocks and
minerals.

Reference: Pelczar, M.J., Chan, E.C., Krieg, N.R.(2010).Microbiology: An Application Based

Approach page 68.New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill.

45. Which of the following bacterial species can make heat resistant endospores and be grown
in aerobic conditions?
A. Bacillus cereus
B. Escherichia coli
C. Clostridium tetani
D. Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Answer: A; Bacillus cereus

A. Bacillus cereus
Members of the genus Bacillus stain gram positive or gram variable; they are aerobic or
facultative anaerobic bacilli that form endospores. Certain genera, such as Bacillus and
Clostridium, produce endospores in response to harsh environmental conditions. Their thick
protein coat makes them highly resistant to chemical agents, temperature change, starvation,
dehydration, ultraviolet and gamma radiation, and desiccation.
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Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic
Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

B. Escherichia coli
Under family of Enterobacteriaceae are facultative anaerobes. E. coli is normal GI flora and a
very common clinical isolate.

Reference: Ciulla, A and Lehman, D. (2010). SUCCESS! in Clinical Laboratory Science (4th Ed.)
page 626. New Jersey: Pearsons Education Inc.

C. Clostridium tetani
Clostridium tetani is an obligate anaerobe. Spores are widespread in nature and cause disease
by contaminating puncture wounds. The exotoxin, tetanospasmin, produced by this organism is
one of the most powerful bacterial toxins known.

Reference: Ciulla, A and Lehman, D. (2010). SUCCESS! in Clinical Laboratory Science (4th Ed.)
page 735. New Jersey: Pearsons Education Inc.

D. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Strictly aerobic metabolic gram negative coccobacillus, P. aeruginosa can produce a variety of
factors that lend to its pathogenicity, such as endotoxin. The most important exotoxin is exotoxin
A; this exotoxin functions similarly to diphtheria toxin by blocking protein synthesis.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

46. Which one of the following statements about bacteria in the environment is false?
A. Single gram of garden soil may contain a billion bacterial cells.
B. There are no bacteria found on clean, healthy human skin.
C. There are bacteria and mold spores drifting in the air, mostly on dust particles.
D. There are bacteria living in your mouth, even if you brush your teeth regularly.

Answer: B; There are no bacteria found on clean, healthy human skin.

All the statements given on choices are true except B; Many microorganisms can survive the
conditions of the skin. These bacteria, or the skin microbiome, are known as skin colonizers, and
they often produce substances that may be toxic and inhibit the growth of more harmful microbial
agents. The skin microbiome differs among healthy individuals more than any other body site.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 27-
28 . St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

47. The Gram stain divides microorganisms into two groups, purple vs. red, on the basis of
differences in the:
A. Presence of a capsule
B. Presence of an outer membrane
C. Thickness of the peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall
D. Presence of endospores
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020
Answer: C; Thickness of the peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall

Gram staining principle: The difference in composition between gram-positive cell walls, which
contain thick peptidoglycan with numerous teichoic acid cross-linkages, and gram-negative cell
walls, which consist of a thinner layer of peptidoglycan and an outer lipid bilayer that is
dehydrated during decolorization, accounts for the Gram staining differences between these two
major groups of bacteria.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 75-
76 . St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

48. What is the correct order in which these reagents are used in the gram stain
A. Crystal violet, Ethanol, Iodine, Safranin
B. Crystal violet, Safranin ,Ethanol, Iodine
C. Crystal violet, Iodine, Ethanol, Safranin
D. Safranin, Iodine, Crystal violet, Ethanol

Answer: C; Crystal violet, Iodine, Ethanol, Safranin

After fixation, the first step in the Gram stain is the application of the primary stain, crystal violet
(CV). A mordant, Gram’s iodine (I), is applied after the crystal violet to chemically bond the
alkaline dye to the iodine, forming a CV-I complex and cross-linking the complex in the bacterial
cell wall. Then decolorization step distinguishes gram-positive from gram-negative cells.
Therefore after decolorization, organisms that stain gram-positive retain the crystal violet and
those that are gram-negative are cleared of crystal violet. Addition of the secondary stain or
counterstain safranin will then stain the colorless gram-negative bacteria pink or red.

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 75. St.
Louis, Missouri: Elsevier

49. True of Escherichia coli, except:

A. Part of the normal flora
B. Will give greenish metallic sheen on EMB
C. Possess a sex pili
D. Have an exotoxin

Answer: D; Have an exotoxin

E.coli does not have exotoxin. Gram negative bacteria has LPS. LPS contains three regions: an
antigenic O–specific polysaccharide, a core polysaccharide, and an inner lipid A (also called
endotoxin) and E.coli is a gram negative bacilli. While gram positive contains exotoxin. E. coli, a
coliform lactose fermenter, typically forms blue-black colonies with a metallic greenish sheen.
Most strains of E. coli are motile and generally possess adhesive fimbriae and sex pili and O, H,
and K antigens.

Reference: Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., Manuselis, G. (2014). Textbook of Diagnostic

Microbiology (6th ed.). New York: Saunders.

50. Antibiotic incorporated into MTM agar

A. Vancomycin
Loresca, Kaycee Gretz V.
BACTERIOLOGY
Seminar 2020
B. Colistin
C. Nystatin
D. All of the above

Answer: D; All of the above

The first of these was Thayer-Martin medium, a chocolate agar with an enrichment supplement
(IsoVitaleX), and the antimicrobials colistin (to inhibit gram-negative bacilli), nystatin (to inhibit
yeast), and vancomycin (to inhibit gram-positive bacteria). This original medium was
subsequently modified to include trimethoprim (to inhibit the swarming observed with Proteus
spp.), and its name was changed to modified Thayer Martin medium (MTM).

Reference: Tille, Patricia M., author. (2014). Bailey & Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology page 493.
St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier