In CSF of a patient with viral meningitis, the most prominent white cell is usually?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In viral meningitis, lymphocytes are the most prominent white cells found in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This is because viral infections typically trigger a specific immune response mediated by lymphocytes, which are specialized white blood cells involved in the body's adaptive immune system. Lymphocytes play a crucial role in recognizing and targeting viral pathogens, leading to their increased presence in the CSF during viral meningitis. Monocytes (option A) are more commonly associated with bacterial infections rather than viral infections. Polymorphs, also known as neutrophils (option C), are primarily involved in acute bacterial infections. Eosinophils (option D) are typically associated with parasitic infections or allergic reactions, not viral meningitis. In an educational context, understanding the types of white blood cells seen in different infections is essential for healthcare professionals, especially those working in fields like microbiology, infectious diseases, or clinical laboratory science. Recognizing the predominant white cell type in CSF can help in diagnosing and managing infections accurately, which is critical for patient care and treatment outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of infection control, understanding the periodicity of fever in malaria is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. In this question, the correct answer is D) p. falciparum. Plasmodium falciparum is least likely to show the characteristic periodicity of fever in malaria because it is the most severe and can lead to continuous fever patterns due to its ability to infect red blood cells of all ages, unlike the other species which have a preference for infecting specific red blood cell stages. Option A) p. malariae is known for causing a quartan fever pattern with a 72-hour cycle, while Option B) p. vivax and Option C) p. ovale exhibit a tertian fever pattern with a 48-hour cycle. These species infect younger red blood cells, leading to the cyclic nature of their fever patterns. In an educational context, this question serves to reinforce the importance of differentiating between malaria species based on their unique characteristics, including fever patterns. Understanding these distinctions is essential for healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding the appropriate treatment and management of malaria infections.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In bacterial vaginosis (option B), clue cells are seen under microscopic examination of vaginal discharge. Clue cells are vaginal epithelial cells covered with bacteria, which are a key diagnostic feature of bacterial vaginosis. This indicates an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vaginal flora. Option A, trichomonas vaginalis, is a sexually transmitted parasite that causes trichomoniasis. While it can be detected in vaginal discharge, it does not cause clue cells. Option C, candida, refers to a yeast infection caused by Candida species, which would not result in clue cells. Option D, HSV 2, is herpes simplex virus type 2, a virus that causes genital herpes, but it does not lead to the presence of clue cells. In an educational context, understanding the significance of clue cells in bacterial vaginosis is crucial for healthcare professionals, particularly those working in women's health or infectious diseases. Recognizing clue cells helps in accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of bacterial vaginosis, highlighting the importance of proper infection control measures to prevent complications and ensure optimal patient care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of infection control, it is crucial to understand the appropriate treatments for different pathogens causing gastroenteritis. Giardia is a protozoan parasite that typically requires treatment with antibiotics. This is because giardiasis, the infection caused by Giardia, can persist and cause chronic symptoms if not treated promptly and effectively with antibiotics. On the other hand, the other options listed - shigella, salmonella, and e.coli - are bacterial pathogens that typically do not require antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated cases of gastroenteritis. In fact, the routine use of antibiotics for these bacterial infections is generally discouraged due to concerns about antibiotic resistance development and potential adverse effects. From an educational standpoint, understanding the specific treatment approaches for different pathogens causing gastroenteritis is essential for healthcare professionals involved in infection control. This knowledge enables them to make informed decisions regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance and ensuring optimal patient outcomes. By grasping the nuances of treatment options, healthcare workers can contribute to effective infection control practices and patient care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question regarding Kawasaki's disease diagnostic criteria, the correct answer is C) generalised lymphadenopathy is NOT a diagnostic criterion for Kawasaki's disease. Kawasaki's disease is an acute febrile illness that primarily affects young children. Fever for 5 days is a key diagnostic criterion for Kawasaki's disease, making option A correct. Bilateral non-purulent conjunctivitis is another characteristic feature of Kawasaki's disease, so option B is also correct. Polymorphous rash, option D, is commonly seen in Kawasaki's disease patients. Generalised lymphadenopathy is not typically associated with Kawasaki's disease, making option C the correct answer. This distinction is crucial for healthcare professionals to accurately diagnose and treat this condition. Educationally, understanding the diagnostic criteria of Kawasaki's disease is vital for healthcare providers working with pediatric patients. By knowing the specific signs and symptoms, healthcare professionals can promptly identify and manage this potentially serious condition, preventing complications and improving outcomes for affected children.