The buildup of mucus and blockage of airways in pertussis is due to
A)endotoxin.
B)lipopolysaccharide.
C)toxins that destroy the ciliated cells of the respiratory tract.
D)Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
E)the presence of a capsule.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The buildup of mucus and blockage of airways in pertussis is due to the toxins produced by Bordetella pertussis that destroy the ciliated cells of the respiratory tract. This leads to the accumulation of mucus, which can block the airways and cause the characteristic cough of pertussis. Endotoxin and lipopolysaccharide may be present in the outer membrane of the bacteria, but they do not directly cause the buildup of mucus. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is not associated with pertussis, and the presence of a capsule may help the bacteria evade the host immune system but does not play a direct role in the development of symptoms.

The Buildup of Mucus and Blockage of Airways in Pertussis