A child has been brought with intestinal obstruction due to clumping of round worms. Which of the following anthelmintics administered by intragastic tube can relax the ascarids and relieve the obstruction

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Piperazine. Piperazine is specifically used to treat infections caused by roundworms like ascarids. When administered through an intragastric tube, piperazine acts as a muscle relaxant on the roundworms, causing them to lose their grip on the intestinal walls and allowing for easier expulsion, thereby relieving the obstruction. Now let's discuss why the other options are incorrect: A) Levamisole is an anthelmintic drug mostly used for treating hookworm infections, not specifically effective against roundworm-induced intestinal obstruction. B) Mebendazole is commonly used to treat a variety of worm infections, but it is not the first-line treatment for roundworm obstruction. C) Pyrantel pamoate is effective against pinworms and is not the drug of choice for roundworm-related obstructions. In an educational context, understanding the specific mechanisms of action and indications of anthelmintic drugs is crucial for healthcare providers to make accurate treatment decisions. Knowing which drug is most effective for a particular type of worm infection can significantly impact patient outcomes, especially in cases of obstructive complications. This knowledge ensures appropriate and timely intervention for the best possible patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of chemotherapy drugs, it is crucial for students to have a clear understanding of different classes of medications and their mechanisms of action. In this question, the correct answer is C) Miconazol. Miconazole is an antifungal drug that belongs to the azole class of antifungals. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. While it is effective against a variety of fungal infections, it is not an antibiotic. Antibiotics are medications that specifically target bacteria, not fungi. A) Amphotericin B and B) Nystatin are both antifungal drugs that belong to the polyene class. They work by binding to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell membrane disruption and fungal cell death. These drugs are not antibiotics but are used to treat fungal infections. D) Griseofulvin is another antifungal drug, but it belongs to the class of antifungals known as griseofulvins. Griseofulvin works by disrupting the formation of the fungal cell wall, leading to inhibition of fungal growth. Like the other antifungal drugs mentioned, it is not an antibiotic. Understanding the differences between antibiotics and antifungal drugs is essential in clinical practice to ensure appropriate treatment selection for patients with specific infections. This question reinforces the importance of pharmacological knowledge and highlights the diversity of drug classes within the realm of chemotherapy medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer to the question, "Which of the following drugs alters permeability of Candida cell membranes?" is option C) Nystatin. Nystatin is an antifungal medication that works by binding to ergosterol in the cell membrane of Candida species, disrupting the membrane structure and altering its permeability. This leads to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately cell death. Nystatin is commonly used to treat fungal infections caused by Candida, such as oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections. Option A) Amphotericin B is also an antifungal medication that works by binding to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, similar to nystatin. However, amphotericin B is more commonly used for systemic fungal infections rather than Candida-specific infections. Option B) Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication that works by inhibiting ergosterol synthesis in the fungal cell membrane, rather than directly altering membrane permeability like nystatin. Educational Context: Understanding how antifungal medications work is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those involved in the treatment of fungal infections. Knowing the mechanisms of action of drugs like nystatin can help in selecting the most appropriate treatment for specific fungal infections. Additionally, recognizing the differences between various antifungal drugs can aid in optimizing therapeutic outcomes and reducing the risk of drug resistance.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Isoniazid is a key drug used in the treatment of tuberculosis. The correct answer is B) Inhibition of mycolic acids synthesis. Mycolic acids are unique fatty acids found in the cell walls of mycobacteria, including the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. Isoniazid works by inhibiting the synthesis of mycolic acids, disrupting the formation of the bacterial cell wall and ultimately leading to cell death. Option A) Inhibition of protein synthesis is incorrect because isoniazid does not target protein synthesis directly. Option C) Inhibition of RNA synthesis is also incorrect as isoniazid does not interfere with RNA synthesis. Option D) Inhibition of ADP synthesis is not a mechanism of action for isoniazid. In an educational context, understanding the mechanism of action of chemotherapy drugs like isoniazid is crucial for healthcare professionals to effectively treat patients with tuberculosis. Knowing how isoniazid works helps in rational prescribing, monitoring for efficacy, and managing potential side effects. This knowledge also contributes to the broader understanding of antimicrobial resistance and the importance of adherence to treatment protocols.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the treatment of nematodosis (roundworm invasion), the correct drug is Pyrantel (Option D). Pyrantel is an anthelmintic medication commonly used to treat various parasitic worm infections, including nematodosis. Pyrantel works by paralyzing the worms, allowing them to be passed out of the body in the stool. Option A, Niclosamide, is used to treat tapeworm infections, not nematodosis. Option B, Praziquantel, is effective against schistosomiasis and certain other types of worm infections, but not nematodosis. Option C, Bithionol, is used to treat fascioliasis and paragonimiasis, not nematodosis. In an educational context, understanding the correct chemotherapy drug for specific infections is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in infectious disease management. Knowing the right drug ensures proper treatment and helps to avoid drug resistance and treatment failure. Understanding the mechanisms of action of different drugs also contributes to effective decision-making in clinical practice.