Question:

Which of the following statement is true about Candida albicans?
A. Germtube formation
B. Pseudohyphae
C. Grow at 25\(^\circ\text{C}\)
D. Only sexual reproduction

Show Hint

In clinical microbiology, Candida albicans is differentiated from other Candida species by its ability to produce both true germ tubes and pseudohyphae.
Eliminating "only sexual reproduction" (D) instantly points to option (B).
  • A and D only
  • A and B only
  • C and D only
  • A, B and D only
Show Solution
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Candida albicans is an opportunistic dimorphic fungus responsible for candidiasis (thrush) in birds and mammals.
It undergoes a yeast-to-hypha transition under favorable physical conditions, which serves as a major phenotypic identifier.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let us analyze each characteristic:
- Statement A: The germ tube test is a standard, rapid diagnostic test for C. albicans.
Incubation of yeast cells in serum at 37\(^\circ\text{C}\) for 2 to 3 hours induces the formation of parallel-sided hyphal projections without constrictions, known as germ tubes.
Thus, Statement A is correct.
- Statement B: C. albicans typically displays pseudohyphae, which are chains of elongated blastoconidia that remain attached after budding.
Thus, Statement B is correct.
- Statement C: Although C. albicans can grow at 25\(^\circ\text{C}\) as a unicellular yeast, this characteristic is shared widely across most yeasts and is not a specific diagnostic criteria compared to the classic diagnostic morphotypes.
- Statement D: C. albicans primarily reproduces asexually by budding.
It lacks a standard meiotic sexual cycle, although a parasexual cycle can occur.
Therefore, the statement that it reproduces strictly by sexual reproduction is false.

Step 3: Final Answer:

By identifying statement D as incorrect, we can eliminate options (A), (C), and (D).
This confirms that (B) is the correct answer.
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