Question

A 28yo male is 1 week s/p bar fight. He presents c/o pain and swelling in his hand and a fever. What pathogen is most likely responsible?

1) Streptococcus pyogenes
2) Staphylococcus aureus
3) Escherichia coli
4) Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Answer 1

The most likely pathogen responsible for the presented symptoms in this case is Staphylococcus aureus, known to cause serious wound infections following a physical injury such as those acquired in a fight.

Step-by-step explanation:

The pathogen most likely responsible for the symptoms of a 28-year-old male who is one week status post (s/p) a bar fight and now presents with pain, swelling in his hand, and a fever, is Staphylococcus aureus. After such an injury, common pathogens associated with wound infections include Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. However, given the acute presentation with significant pain, swelling, and fever as well as the context of a recent fight, Staphylococcus aureus, which is known for causing more serious and rapidly progressing skin infections, is the most probable culprit. Other possible but less likely pathogens responsible for skin infections include Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. It is important for the individual to seek medical attention for diagnostic tests such as cultures and to initiate appropriate antibiotic therapy.