Chapter 21, Problem 1EDCS

(1)

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The reason behind the ineffectiveness of amoxicillin.

Case summary:

David was bitten by a tick which resulted in a boil on his left shoulder. Though it was not painful still he went to primary care physician who prescribed him amoxicillin for the boil. After three days, he started to feel much worse.

(2)

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The reason behind not showing infection in antibody test.

Case summary:

After three days of David’s visit to primary care physician, he developed high fever, muscle pain, fatigue, headache and rashes over his entire body. His physician suspected Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ordered test using Rickettsia rickettsii.

(3)

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The technique of PCR testing.

Case summary:

The laboratory antibody test using Rickettsia rickettsii came out to be negative as David was not suffering from Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The physician took the skin sample from the infected area of David and PCR testing was conducted on that sample.

(4)

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The color of Rickettsia in Gram-stained sample of David’s skin.

Case summary:

David was not suffering from Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The physician took the skin sample from the infected area of David and PCR testing was conducted on that sample. The testing revealed the presence of Rickettsia parkeri.