American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What type of exposure is linked to Aeromonas hydrophila infections?

1. Contact with salt water

2. Contact with fresh water or medicinal leeches

3. Exposure to contaminated surfaces

4. Ingestion of raw fish

The correct answer is: Contact with fresh water or medicinal leeches

The association of Aeromonas hydrophila infections with fresh water or medicinal leeches stems from the organism's natural habitat and transmission pathways. Aeromonas hydrophila is commonly found in freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, and ponds. Exposure to these water sources can lead to skin infections or gastrointestinal illnesses, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. Additionally, the use of medicinal leeches, which can be found in freshwater settings, may also pose a risk as these leeches can harbor Aeromonas hydrophila. When leeches are applied to wounds or during surgical procedures, there is a potential for the bacteria to enter the body, resulting in infection. While contact with salt water and ingestion of raw fish can lead to infections from other types of bacteria, they are less commonly linked to Aeromonas hydrophila. Contaminated surfaces are also not typically associated with this particular organism. Understanding these relationships helps clinicians identify risk factors for infection and manage prevention strategies effectively.