Barber Practice State Board Practice Exam

Which bacteria strain is responsible for causing abscesses and boils?

1. Streptococci

2. Bacilli

3. Staphylococci

4. Spirilla

The correct answer is: Staphylococci

The bacteria strain responsible for causing abscesses and boils is Staphylococci. This group of bacteria is known for its ability to thrive in various environments and is often found on the skin and in the nasal cavity. When staphylococci enter the body through breaks in the skin, they can cause localized infections that lead to the formation of abscesses and boils. These infections are characterized by pus accumulation and can be quite painful for the affected individual. Streptococci, while also pathogenic, typically cause different types of infections, such as strep throat and skin infections like cellulitis, rather than boils or abscesses. Bacilli refer to rod-shaped bacteria that can also cause infections but are not specifically linked to boils. Spirilla, spiral-shaped bacteria, are less commonly associated with skin infections like abscesses and boils. Thus, Staphylococci are the primary culprits when it comes to these particular types of skin infections, making them the correct answer to the question.