The agent in question 31, which is causing the ascending urinary tract infection and pyelonephritis, has a normal flora "fraternal twin" of the same genus and species. What virulence factor does the pathogen have and the normal flora organism lack even although both are E coli?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Common pili of Escherichia coli bind to the colonic mucosa but not to the uroepithelium; therefore, in order to cause ascending urinary tract infections and not just be washed out by periodic urine flow, the E. coli has to have either x-adhesins (not a choice) or pyelonephritis associated pili (P-pili).

The Agent in Question 31, Which Is Causing the Ascending