How can Neisseria gonorrhoeae be detected in ocular specimens?

Study for the NBEO Microbiology exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

How can Neisseria gonorrhoeae be detected in ocular specimens?

Explanation:
The key idea is that gonococcal eye infection is most reliably suggested by a Gram stain of the eye discharge showing intracellular Gram-negative diplococci inside neutrophils. This finding is classic for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and provides a rapid, highly specific clue that prompts urgent treatment and confirmatory culture on selective media. Other stains don’t target these bacteria: Ziehl-Neelsen is for acid-fast organisms like Mycobacterium, Calcofluor white highlights fungi, and Giemsa isn’t the standard method for identifying gonococci in ocular specimens.

The key idea is that gonococcal eye infection is most reliably suggested by a Gram stain of the eye discharge showing intracellular Gram-negative diplococci inside neutrophils. This finding is classic for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and provides a rapid, highly specific clue that prompts urgent treatment and confirmatory culture on selective media. Other stains don’t target these bacteria: Ziehl-Neelsen is for acid-fast organisms like Mycobacterium, Calcofluor white highlights fungi, and Giemsa isn’t the standard method for identifying gonococci in ocular specimens.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy