Which statement about Klebsiella pneumoniae is true?

Prepare for the NBME Microbiology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each query comes with hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which statement about Klebsiella pneumoniae is true?

Explanation:
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a lactose-fermenting, oxidase-negative, nonmotile gram-negative rod. Its strong lactose fermentation leads to pink (lactose-fermenting) colonies on MacConkey agar, which is why the statement about lactose fermentation is true. It does not produce hydrogen sulfide, and it is nonmotile (not motile) and oxidase negative, so those other properties are not correct. The clear distinguishing trait here is its ability to rapidly ferment lactose, giving the characteristic lactose-fermenter phenotype.

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a lactose-fermenting, oxidase-negative, nonmotile gram-negative rod. Its strong lactose fermentation leads to pink (lactose-fermenting) colonies on MacConkey agar, which is why the statement about lactose fermentation is true. It does not produce hydrogen sulfide, and it is nonmotile (not motile) and oxidase negative, so those other properties are not correct. The clear distinguishing trait here is its ability to rapidly ferment lactose, giving the characteristic lactose-fermenter phenotype.

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