Final answer:
Microscopic examination of bacteria provides valuable information about their shape and arrangement, helping in identification and treatment. Leukocytosis is a common response to infections or inflammation like severe burns, highlighting the body's immune reaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
By examining bacteria under a microscope, we can learn about their shape, size, and arrangement, which are critical in identifying the type of bacteria and guiding appropriate treatment options. For instance, Staphylococcus aureus is usually seen as clusters resembling grapes, while Streptococcus pyogenes appears in chains. These characteristics, along with specialized tests like agglutination tests for S. aureus or bacitracin susceptibility for S. pyogenes, can confirm the presence of these bacteria as seen in the case studies provided.
Leukocytosis, or a high white blood cell count, is an expected response to infection or inflammation, such as seen in a severe burn or infections like necrotizing fasciitis or infections related to surgical sites like implantation of a central venous catheter.