To review:
The importance of identification of the genus and species of a pathogen.
Introduction:
A genus is a biological classification of an organism and also a taxonomical rank. Genus resides above the species in the hierarchial classification. Taxonomy is the field of science that classifies or characterizes all living organisms in various categories according to their features.
Explanation of Solution
Various reasons to identify the genus and species of the pathogen before treating them include antibiotic resistance, pathogen-specific disease complication, and tracking the spread of the disease. These are described as follows:
Antibiotic resistance: Certain antigens show resistance to the antibiotics given and this is one of the major problems in treating the infection or disease. Hence, knowledge about the genus and species of a pathogen gives an idea about which antibiotics are effective and which are not.
Pathogen-specific disease complication: Certain pathogens even after treatment would show some complications. For example, strains of Streptococcus pyogenes would cause sore throat in children. After treatment, heart and kidney problems may arise. The pathogen can be eliminated when the strain is known.
Tracking the spread of the disease: When a disease is spreading in a place and the same strain is found in all the affected persons, this implies the fact that all the strains have originated from the same source. The identification of genus or species of the disease-causing pathogen may help in providing treatment accordingly.
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Chapter 28 Solutions
Microbiology: An Evolving Science (Fourth Edition)
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- Why are some pathogens more noticeable than others?arrow_forwardIdentifying an unknown bacterium is an essential step in the diagnosis and treatment process. Since not every antibiotic is effective against every type of bacteria, knowing what caused a particular infection allows us to make correct prescriptions so patients can recover more quickly. Knowing the cause of an infection also prevents antibiotic resistance as well, since incorrect prescriptions allow bacteria to be unnecessarily be exposed to antibiotics, increasing the chances of developing resistance.arrow_forwardWhich pathogen is most likely to be treated with antibiotics?arrow_forward
- Normal microbiota provide protection from infection in each of the following ways EXCEPT: Question 3 options: A) they produce antibacterial chemicals. B) they compete with pathogens for nutrients. C) they make the chemical environment unsuitable for nonresident bacteria. D) they produce lysozyme.arrow_forwardWhich one(s) is/are more harmful to the host and why? A) Antifungal agents B) antiprotozoal agents C) antibiotics A and Barrow_forwardWhat is the purpose of Koch’s postulates?arrow_forward
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