Which of the following correctly describes the HACEK group of organisms relevant to infective endocarditis?

• A Gram-positive cocci that are part of normal skin flora
• B Anaerobic organisms commonly associated with intra-abdominal infections
• C Gram-negative bacilli that are fastidious and part of normal oropharyngeal flora ✓
• D Acid-fast bacilli causing culture-negative endocarditis

Explanation

HACEK organisms (Haemophilus, Aggregatibacter, Cardiobacterium, Eikenella, Kingella) are fastidious gram-negative bacilli that are part of the normal oropharyngeal flora. They are a well-recognised cause of native valve endocarditis, often producing large vegetations and embolic phenomena. They may require prolonged culture incubation (up to 2-3 weeks) for growth.

Reference: Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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