True about typhoid is –
**Core Concept**
Typhoid fever is a systemic infection caused by Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi), a Gram-negative bacterium. The pathogenesis of typhoid involves the invasion of intestinal epithelial cells and subsequent spread to lymphoid tissues, liver, spleen, and bone marrow.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the pathophysiology of typhoid fever. S. Typhi invades the intestinal epithelial cells through the M cell-mediated pathway, leading to the release of inflammatory cytokines and the formation of a protective capsule around the bacteria. This capsule, composed of Vi polysaccharide, helps the bacteria evade the host's immune response. The bacteria then enter the lymphoid tissues, causing a systemic infection.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because the correct answer is not related to the mode of transmission of typhoid fever, which is primarily through contaminated food and water.
**Option B:** Incorrect because the correct answer is not related to the treatment of typhoid fever, which typically involves antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or ceftriaxone.
**Option C:** Incorrect because the correct answer is not related to the complications of typhoid fever, which can include intestinal perforation, hemorrhage, and encephalitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Vi polysaccharide capsule of S. Typhi is a key virulence factor, and vaccines targeting this antigen can provide protection against typhoid fever.
**Correct Answer:**