What type of disease is Enterobacter sakazakii known to cause?

• A. Urinary tract infections
• B. Pneumonia
• C. Severe gastrointestinal infections
• D. Skin infections

Answer: (C)

Enterobacter sakazakii is primarily associated with severe gastrointestinal infections, particularly in infants. This organism has been linked to cases of necrotizing enterocolitis, which is a serious condition that affects the intestines of premature infants and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. The bacteria can be found in powdered infant formula, which poses a risk when it is reconstituted and used improperly.

In adults, Enterobacter sakazakii can also cause infections, but the most notable and concerning cases involve neonatal infections, emphasizing its role in severe gastrointestinal issues. This underscores the need for safe feeding practices and hygiene standards when preparing infant formula, especially for vulnerable populations like premature and low-birth-weight infants.

The other options, while they represent types of infections that can be caused by various pathogens, do not align with the specific associations identified with Enterobacter sakazakii. This bacterium is not typically known for causing urinary tract infections, pneumonia, or skin infections, which are more commonly linked to different bacterial species.