Question

Staphylococcus aureus is part of the indigenous microbiota of the human body. If this microorganism becomes pathogenic, what could be a serious outcome?

1) Abscesses of the skin
2) Serious lung infection
3) Foodborne illness
4) Endocarditis
5) Toxic shock syndrome

Answer 1

If Staphylococcus aureus becomes pathogenic, serious outcomes can include abscesses of the skin, serious lung infection, endocarditis, and toxic shock syndrome.

Step-by-step explanation:

If Staphylococcus aureus, a normally harmless bacterium found on the human body, becomes pathogenic, it can lead to several serious outcomes. Some of the potential serious outcomes include:

1. Abscesses of the skin: Pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus can cause skin infections that result in the formation of pus-filled abscesses.
2. Serious lung infection: Staphylococcus aureus can cause pneumonia, a severe lung infection that can be life-threatening.
3. Endocarditis: Infections of the heart valves, known as endocarditis, can occur when Staphylococcus aureus enters the bloodstream and travels to the heart.
4. Toxic shock syndrome: Certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus produce toxins that can lead to toxic shock syndrome, a potentially fatal condition characterized by low blood pressure and organ failure.