Which bacterial infections are routinely diagnosed by measuring host antibodies that neutralize the microbe's exotoxins?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Antibodies that neutralize the exotoxins produced by Streptococcus pyogenes are routinely measured to diagnose infections caused by this bacterium, such as strep throat or scarlet fever. Antibody neutralization assays may also be used to diagnose infections caused by other exotoxin-producing bacteria, such as Clostridium botulinum or Clostridium tetani, among others. The other options listed (Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Rickettsia rickettsii, and Helicobacter pylori) are not typically diagnosed by measuring host antibodies that neutralize the microbe's exotoxins.

Which Bacterial Infections Are Routinely Diagnosed by Measuring Host Antibodies