Question

Maja has contracted what is described as a "superinfection". This means that her infection:

A) Is caused by a highly resistant pathogen.

B) Is a secondary infection following the use of antibiotics, often involving opportunistic pathogens.

C) Is a severe and potentially life-threatening infection.

D) Is characterized by rapid onset and aggressive progression.

Answer 1

A superinfection, like the one Maja has contracted, is a secondary infection that follows antibiotic treatment, often due to opportunistic pathogens exploiting the compromised immune system or absence of normal microbiota.

Step-by-step explanation:

A superinfection occurs when a new secondary infection arises during the treatment of a primary infection, often due to the disruption of normal microbiota by broad-spectrum antibiotics. This can lead to the proliferation of resistant pathogens. A superinfection may typically involve opportunistic pathogens taking advantage of the weakened immune defenses or the absence of protective microbiota. Specifically, this could result in infections by organisms like Clostridium difficile, leading to pseudomembranous colitis, or by fungi causing candidiasis.

Drug resistance plays a significant role in the development of superinfections. When broad-spectrum antimicrobial use selects for resistant strains, the result can be superbugs like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) or carbapenem-resistant bacteria. These pathogens are of particular concern due to their resistance to multiple drugs, making them difficult to treat.

In the case presented, a superinfection is defined as: B) Is a secondary infection following the use of antibiotics, often involving opportunistic pathogens.