**Core Concept:**
The question is related to the diagnosis of an infectious condition in a pediatric patient presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy, and the presence of a grey membrane over the right tonsil. The correct answer indicates the appropriate medium for the early isolation and identification of the causative pathogen.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
In this scenario, the grey membrane over the right tonsil is a clinical sign of tonsillitis caused by certain pathogens like Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus). The correct medium for early diagnosis of these pathogens is **Chocolate agar** (Corynebacterium agar with added blood and haemolysin). This medium supports the growth of fastidious organisms like Strep. pyogenes, which is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and timely initiation of appropriate therapy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. **Gram's stain** is essential for identifying the bacterial morphology and classifying bacteria into different groups (gram-positive, gram-negative, etc.), but it is not a medium for pathogen isolation.
B. **MacConkey agar** is used for the detection of lactose fermentation in gram-negative bacteria but is not suitable for the isolation of Strep. pyogenes.
C. **Blood agar** is a solid medium used for the isolation and identification of bacteria, but it is not specific for Strep. pyogenes.
D. **Culture media** in general is important for isolating and identifying bacteria but does not specify the type of medium required for Strep. pyogenes isolation.
**Clinical Pearl:**
The presence of a greyish membrane over the tonsil in a child with fever and lymphadenopathy is a key clinical clue for tonsillitis, particularly Group A Streptococcal tonsillitis. Early diagnosis using the appropriate medium like chocolate agar is crucial for the appropriate antibiotic therapy and prevention of complications like rheumatic fever.
**Correct Answer:**
D. **Culture media** is important for isolating and identifying bacteria, but the specific medium for the isolation of Strep. pyogenes is **chocolate agar**. This medium is essential for the early diagnosis and management of Group A Streptococcal tonsillitis, ensuring appropriate antibiotic therapy and reducing the risk of complications.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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