Give the scientific name of the pathogen causing Diphtheria?

Appeared in: MNS 2015

Explanation

The question asks for the scientific name of the pathogen that causes Diphtheria.
Corynebacterium diphtheriae (abbreviated as C. Diphtheriae) is the specific bacterium responsible for causing diphtheria.
This bacterium is a Gram-positive, club-shaped bacillus known for producing a powerful exotoxin that leads to the disease's characteristic symptoms.
The other options are causative agents for different infectious diseases.

Option A: S. typhi, or Salmonella typhi, is the bacterium that causes typhoid fever, not diphtheria.
Option C: R. Pertussis is an incorrect name. The causative agent of pertussis (whooping cough) is Bordetella pertussis. Diphtheria and pertussis are different diseases, although they are both prevented by the DPT vaccine.
Option D: M. leprae, or Mycobacterium leprae, is the bacterium responsible for causing leprosy (Hansen's disease), a chronic infection affecting the skin and nerves.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agents of infectious diseases as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease. Nurses play a crucial role in advocating for and administering the DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus) vaccine as per the national immunization schedule.
A key diagnostic sign of respiratory diphtheria is the formation of a thick, gray pseudomembrane covering the throat and tonsils. A nurse's assessment must include checking for this sign, as attempting to remove it can cause bleeding and it can lead to life-threatening airway obstruction.
Treatment involves immediate administration of diphtheria antitoxin to neutralize the toxin and antibiotics (like penicillin or erythromycin) to kill the bacteria. Prompt nursing action and monitoring are critical.

How to Approach the Question

This is a direct recall question that tests your knowledge of microbiology.
First, identify the key disease mentioned in the question: 'Diphtheria'.
Next, recall the specific causative agent (pathogen) for this disease from your studies.
Scan the options provided to find the scientific name that matches the pathogen for diphtheria.
Eliminate the other options by recalling the diseases they cause (e.g., S. typhi causes typhoid fever).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 264-266

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1263-1265

E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 2 p. 135-137

Practise the full MNS 2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.