Laboratory microbiology: 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 · Laboratory microbiology

Sample item

What does a PCR test detect most directly?

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

The answer and the reasoning

A. Specific nucleic acid sequence

PCR amplifies targeted DNA or RNA sequences, allowing sensitive detection of pathogens or genetic markers when appropriate controls are used.

Option by option

  • A. Specific nucleic acid sequence (correct)

    Correct: nucleic acid amplification is PCR principle.

  • B. Bacterial colony morphology

    Colonies need culture.

  • C. Antibody titre only

    Antibodies need serology.

  • D. Patient blood pressure

    Blood pressure is physiological measurement.

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 A, Specific nucleic acid sequence. PCR amplifies targeted DNA or RNA sequences, allowing sensitive detection of pathogens or genetic markers when appropriate controls are used.

Why is "Bacterial colony morphology" not the answer?

Colonies need culture.

Why is "Antibody titre only" not the answer?

Antibodies need serology.

Why is "Patient blood pressure" not the answer?

Blood pressure is physiological measurement.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Laboratory microbiology in Microbiology. The correct option holds because: Correct: nucleic acid amplification is PCR principle.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. 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 Laboratory microbiology?

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.