Glanders disease is caused by –
**Core Concept**
Glanders disease is a zoonotic infection caused by a specific bacterium, affecting both animals and humans. The underlying principle being tested is the knowledge of **Burkholderia mallei**, the causative agent of this disease. This bacterium is a gram-negative, aerobic bacterium.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to **Burkholderia mallei**, which is the bacterium responsible for causing Glanders disease. This bacterium is typically found in equines, such as horses, donkeys, and mules, and can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with an infected animal's nasal discharge or through contaminated objects.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not correspond to the known causative agent of Glanders disease.
**Option B:** Similarly, this option is incorrect as it is not associated with Glanders disease.
**Option C:** This option is also incorrect as it is not the bacterium that causes Glanders disease.
**Option D:** This option might seem plausible but is incorrect because the correct answer is specifically **Burkholderia mallei**.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Glanders disease is a rare but potentially life-threatening infection, and its diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, particularly in individuals who work with equines or in endemic areas. The disease can manifest in different forms, including cutaneous, pulmonary, and septicemic forms.
**Correct Answer:** D. Burkholderia mallei.