Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Sample Solution
Analyzing Proof of Disease State and Relapse
Part A: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and Antibodies
Mtb Isolation: The isolation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from a patient is a definitive proof of a disease state. This indicates the presence of the causative agent of tuberculosis, confirming an active infection.
Antibodies against Mtb: While the presence of antibodies against Mtb can be indicative of a previous or current infection, it does not definitively confirm a disease state. Antibodies can persist long after an infection has been resolved, making them less reliable as a sole diagnostic marker. In some cases, antibodies may also be present without an active infection, such as in individuals who have been vaccinated against tuberculosis.
Disease: The disease in this case is tuberculosis.
Part B: Relapse of Streptococcal Sore Throat
The probable cause of the relapse in the patient with streptococcal sore throat despite taking penicillin for two days is incomplete antibiotic treatment.
Antibiotics, when taken correctly, can effectively eliminate bacterial infections. However, when a course of antibiotics is not completed, some bacteria may survive, leading to a relapse of the infection. This phenomenon is known as antibiotic resistance.
Full Answer Section
Factors Contributing to Relapse:
- Incomplete Treatment: The patient's decision to stop taking penicillin early may have allowed surviving bacteria to multiply and cause a recurrence of the infection.
- Bacterial Resistance: The bacteria causing the sore throat may have developed resistance to penicillin, making the antibiotic less effective in treating the infection.
Importance of Completing Antibiotic Treatment:
- Preventing Relapse: Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to prevent relapses and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.
- Reducing Spread of Infection: Adhering to the prescribed antibiotic regimen helps to reduce the spread of the infection to others.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Tuberculosis (TB). https://www.cdc.gov/tb/index.html
- National Institutes of Health. (2022). Streptococcal Infections. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7611/