Microscopic examination of a patient’s sputum shows aseptate fungus. Which of the following is an aseptate fungus?
**Core Concept**
Aseptate fungi are a group of fungi that lack cross-walls or septa between their cells, as opposed to septate fungi which have distinct cell walls. Aseptate fungi are typically found in the sputum of patients with respiratory infections.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is an aseptate fungus because it lacks cross-walls between its cells, which is a characteristic feature of this group of fungi. This is in contrast to septate fungi, which have distinct cell walls that divide the fungal hyphae into separate cells. The aseptate fungus grows and reproduces by the extension of its hyphae, which allows it to colonize and infect the respiratory tract.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it is a type of septate fungus, which has distinct cell walls that divide the fungal hyphae into separate cells.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is a type of fungus that is not typically associated with respiratory infections.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is a type of septate fungus, which has distinct cell walls that divide the fungal hyphae into separate cells.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Aseptate fungi, such as Pneumocystis jirovecii, are opportunistic pathogens that can cause severe respiratory infections in immunocompromised patients.
**Correct Answer:** C. Pneumocystis jirovecii.