Which of the following is not involved in the pathogenesis of RMSF?
A) The pathogen releases an A-B toxin that attaches to receptors on TH cell cytoplasmic membranes, leading to destruction of those cells.
B) Endotoxin released into the bloodstream from the rickettsial cell walls results in systemic inflammation.
C) Disseminated intravascular coagulation that leads to organ damage may occur following release of endotoxin into the bloodstream.
D) Host cells rupture following damage caused by bacterial cells propelling themselves from one cell to another.
E) Vasculitis leads to clotting and small areas of necrosis, causing a hemorrhagic skin rash and damaging tissue in the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Question

Which of the following is not involved in the pathogenesis of RMSF?
A) The pathogen releases an A-B toxin that attaches to receptors on TH cell cytoplasmic membranes, leading to destruction of those cells.
B) Endotoxin released into the bloodstream from the rickettsial cell walls results in systemic inflammation.
C) Disseminated intravascular coagulation that leads to organ damage may occur following release of endotoxin into the bloodstream.
D) Host cells rupture following damage caused by bacterial cells propelling themselves from one cell to another.
E) Vasculitis leads to clotting and small areas of necrosis, causing a hemorrhagic skin rash and damaging tissue in the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

RMSF is caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, which does not release an A-B toxin. Instead, the pathogen invades endothelial cells and replicates intracellularly, leading to endothelial cell damage and vasculitis. This can result in systemic inflammation, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and organ damage. Rickettsia rickettsii does not propel itself from cell to cell like some other bacteria, so choice D is also incorrect.

Which of the Following Is Not Involved in the Pathogenesis