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#1-5 CAUSATIVE ORGANISM: Streptococcus pneumonia (FORMERLY Diplococcus pneunonia

ID: 81061 • Letter: #

Question

#1-5

CAUSATIVE ORGANISM: Streptococcus pneumonia (FORMERLY Diplococcus pneunoniae) Category: (i.e. bacteria, fungi, protozoa, virus) Gram Rxs if bacteria: (if not bacteria, indicate Not Applicable) Unique/key characteristics: (i.e. capsule, cysts, endospores, AND key morphological information) DISEASE(s): (Use technically accurate name & if applicable common name) Specifics regarding transmission mechanism (i.e. vehicle, vector, any relevant info) SIGNS & SYMPTOMS: (specify if differences between male & female symptoms; any key age groups affected) TREATMENT (specify drugs used; any key factors in successful treatment; any resistance issues; cure rate; age differences) PREVENTION: (include if vaccine or not & who to be vaccinated; specific precautions to prevent contracting/spreading)

Explanation / Answer

1) Category: Bacteria

Gram Reactions: It is a Gram positive bacteria

Unique Characteristics: Encapsulated, Lancet-shaped and Diplococci with a polysaccharide capsule

2) Diseases: Causes Pneumonia and Meningitis in children and geriatrics

3) Signs and Symptoms: Pneumonia: Cough, fatigue, fever, shortness of breath and chest pain

Meningitis: Severe Headache, Nuchal rigidity, High fever and Altered mental status

4) Treatment: Pneumonia: Antibiotics are used and the choice of antibiotics depends on numerous factors such as patient's age, health status and location of the infection. Amoxicilin is used as first line treatment and Doxycycline or Clarithromycin used as alternatives

Meningitis: The choice of antibiotic depends on the kind of bacteria that cause meningitis. Chloramphenicol with or without Ampicillin works well.

Thank you!