Spherical bacteria that grow in pairs and can cause pneumonia are called what?

Enhance your infection control knowledge with the Pivot Point Infection Control 102.2 Test. Prepare with multiple choice questions, each providing detailed explanations and hints. Equip yourself for success!

Multiple Choice

Spherical bacteria that grow in pairs and can cause pneumonia are called what?

Explanation:
Think about how bacteria are described by shape and how they group after division. Spherical bacteria are cocci, and when they pair up, they form diplococci. This arrangement is classic for the pneumonia-causing Streptococcus pneumoniae, which appears as paired cocci under the microscope. Other terms describe different groupings or shapes: streptococci are cocci in chains, staphylococci form grape-like clusters, and spirochetes are spiral-shaped, not spherical.

Think about how bacteria are described by shape and how they group after division. Spherical bacteria are cocci, and when they pair up, they form diplococci. This arrangement is classic for the pneumonia-causing Streptococcus pneumoniae, which appears as paired cocci under the microscope. Other terms describe different groupings or shapes: streptococci are cocci in chains, staphylococci form grape-like clusters, and spirochetes are spiral-shaped, not spherical.

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