A Student Learns That the Organism Causing Syphilis, T

question 41

Multiple Choice

A student learns that the organism causing syphilis, T. pallidum, is easily treated and killed using penicillin. He assumes this will also be true for N. gonorrhoeae, the organism that causes gonorrhea since it is also a bacterium. Is he correct?

• A) Yes, any bacterial STI can be treated with antibiotics such as penicillin.
• B) Yes, the organisms causing both syphilis and gonorrhea can be killed with penicillin.
• C) No, gonorrhea is resistant to penicillin but can be treated with most other antibiotics.
• D) No, gonorrhea has developed drug resistance to several different classes of antibiotics, including penicillin.
• E) No, gonorrhea cannot be treated with penicillin or other antibiotics because it is not caused by a bacterium.

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Definitions:

Absorption

The process by which substances are taken up into or across tissues, such as the absorption of nutrients by the intestines.

Gingivitis

A common and mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes irritation, redness, and swelling (inflammation) of your gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth.

Periodontitis

A serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone supporting teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Mucosa

A moist, inner lining of some organs and body cavities, such as the nose, mouth, lungs, and stomach.