Capsule Stain Flashcards
What is a capsule stain used for?
To visualize bacterial capsules.
True or False: Capsules are a form of bacterial virulence factor.
True
What type of microscopy is often used in conjunction with capsule staining?
Light microscopy
Fill in the blank: The two common methods for capsule staining are the __________ method and the __________ method.
negative staining; Anthony’s staining
What is the primary dye used in the Anthony’s capsule stain method?
Crystal violet
What color do capsules appear after a successful capsule stain?
Clear or colorless
True or False: All bacteria have capsules.
False
What is the role of the capsule in bacteria?
To protect against phagocytosis and to aid in adhesion.
Which bacterial species is commonly known for having a capsule?
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of capsules? A) Antiphagocytic B) Hydrophilic C) Nutrient storage D) Adherence
B) Hydrophilic
What is the appearance of the background in a negative stain?
Dark or colored
Fill in the blank: The capsule is composed primarily of __________.
Polysaccharides or proteins
True or False: Capsule staining is a differential staining technique.
True
What is the purpose of using India ink in capsule staining?
To create a dark background for better visualization of the capsule.
Short Answer: Name one clinical significance of capsule formation in bacteria.
It enhances virulence by preventing phagocytosis.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a common method for capsule staining? A) Gram stain B) Endospore stain C) Negative stain D) Acid-fast stain
C) Negative stain
Fill in the blank: Capsules can be visualized using __________ microscopy.
Phase-contrast
What is the main disadvantage of capsule staining?
It may not be effective for all bacterial species.
True or False: The capsule cannot be destroyed by heat.
True
What is the effect of the capsule on antibiotic resistance?
It can contribute to resistance by preventing drug penetration.
Short Answer: Describe the appearance of a bacteria with a capsule under a microscope after staining.
Bacteria appear with a halo or clear zone around them.
Multiple Choice: Which type of bacteria are more likely to have a capsule? A) Gram-positive B) Gram-negative C) Both A and B D) Neither A nor B
C) Both A and B
Fill in the blank: The capsule is primarily located __________ the cell wall.
Outside
What is a common example of a pathogenic bacteria with a capsule?
Klebsiella pneumoniae
True or False: Capsules can be visualized with simple staining techniques.
False
Short Answer: Why is it important to identify capsules in clinical microbiology?
To assess the virulence and potential pathogenicity of bacterial isolates.
