**Core Concept**
The question is testing the student's knowledge of the pathogenesis of diarrheal diseases caused by E. coli. Specifically, it is assessing the understanding of how certain E. coli strains affect the intestinal surface, leading to diarrheal symptoms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is E. coli adhering to and effacing (EAE) the intestinal surface. This strain of E. coli, also known as Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), causes diarrheal disease by adhering to the intestinal surface and effacing the microvilli, leading to a loss of surface area for nutrient absorption. This results in a decrease in the intestinal absorption of nutrients, leading to diarrheal symptoms.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as Shigella does not directly affect the intestinal surface villi. Instead, it invades the intestinal epithelial cells, leading to cell death and a decrease in the intestinal barrier function.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as Vibrio cholerae causes diarrheal disease by producing cholera toxin, which increases the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate ions into the intestinal lumen, leading to a massive efflux of water and electrolytes.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect as Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid fever, which is characterized by a systemic infection and fever, rather than a direct effect on the intestinal surface villi.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The EPEC strain of E. coli is known to cause infantile diarrheal disease, particularly in developing countries. The pathogenesis of EPEC involves a complex interplay of adhesion and effacement of the intestinal surface, leading to a loss of surface area for nutrient absorption.
**Correct Answer: C. Vibrio cholerae does not cause E. coli, but rather is the cause of Cholera.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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