Bacteriology: Listeria monocytogenes: practice question

A Microbiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Microbiology · Bacteriology: Listeria monocytogenes

Sample item

Which empiric addition is appropriate for suspected bacterial meningitis in an older adult to cover Listeria monocytogenes?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Ampicillin

Listeria can cause meningitis in neonates, older adults, and immunocompromised people, and it is intrinsically resistant to cephalosporins. Ampicillin provides appropriate coverage.

Option by option

  • A. Fluconazole

    Fluconazole is antifungal.

  • B. Azithromycin

    Azithromycin is not reliable empiric Listeria treatment.

  • C. Ampicillin (correct)

    Correct. Ampicillin is added specifically for Listeria coverage.

  • D. Metronidazole

    Metronidazole targets anaerobes and protozoa, not standard Listeria meningitis therapy.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Microbiology question

What is the answer to this Microbiology question?

The best answer is C, Ampicillin. Listeria can cause meningitis in neonates, older adults, and immunocompromised people, and it is intrinsically resistant to cephalosporins.

Why is "Fluconazole" not the answer?

Fluconazole is antifungal.

Why is "Azithromycin" not the answer?

Azithromycin is not reliable empiric Listeria treatment.

Why is "Metronidazole" not the answer?

Metronidazole targets anaerobes and protozoa, not standard Listeria meningitis therapy.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Bacteriology: Listeria monocytogenes in Microbiology. Ampicillin provides appropriate coverage.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as a multi-step question: it asks you to combine more than one idea. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Bacteriology: Listeria monocytogenes?

Make a one-line identity card for each organism: shape and stain, defining test, toxin, disease and drug. Then use the flashcards and the other Microbiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.