A 45-year-old woman comes to the emergency department because of abdominal cramping, vomiting, and watery diarrhea for the past 4 days. She prepares her own food and frequently tastes it while cooking. The patient appears lethargic. Her temperature is 38.8°C (101.8°F). Abdominal examination shows mild, diffuse tenderness. Bowel sounds are increased. Examination of the stool shows numerous leukocytes. Which of the following is the most likely pathogen?

Question

A 45-year-old woman comes to the emergency department because of abdominal cramping, vomiting, and watery diarrhea for the past 4 days. She prepares her own food and frequently tastes it while cooking.  The patient appears lethargic. Her temperature is 38.8°C (101.8°F). Abdominal examination shows mild, diffuse tenderness.  Bowel sounds are increased.  Examination of the stool shows numerous leukocytes.  Which of the following is the most likely pathogen?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Campylobacter gastroenteritis causes an inflammatory diarrhea characterized by fecal leukocytes and/or red blood cells.  Transmission typically occurs via ingestion of contaminated foods that are undercooked/unrefrigerated, and patients typically have fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea with or without gross blood.

A 45-Year-Old Woman Comes to the Emergency Department Because of Abdominal