Question

A strain of bacteria associated with a bladder infection shows gram-negative rods. What species is most likely to be the causative agent?

a) Escherichia coli
b) Staphylococcus aureus
c) Streptococcus pyogenes
d) Klebsiella pneumoniae

Answer 1

The most likely causative agent of a bladder infection represented by gram-negative rods is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is the predominant pathogen associated with UTIs in such cases.

Step-by-step explanation:

Considering the bacterial strain shows gram-negative rods, the causative agent of a bladder infection is most likely Escherichia coli (E. coli). E. coli is a significant pathogenic bacterium known to cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), including bladder infections. This species of bacteria can exhibit additional virulence factors such as type 1 fimbriae, which enhance its ability to colonize and result in infection. Among gram-negative bacteria responsible for such infections, E. coli is the most commonly known. While other bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae can also cause bladder infections, E. coli is the predominant agent associated with UTIs when gram-negative rods are observed.