Pharmacology Practice Test

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A patient is admitted with a severe skin and soft tissue infection. Cultures grow Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to oxacillin. This resistance is conferred by the mecA gene. What is the primary mechanism of resistance in this organism?

Increased production of beta-lactamase enzymes that hydrolyze the antibiotic. Efflux pumps that actively transport the antibiotic out of the bacterial cell. Alteration of the drug's target site, the penicillin-binding protein (PBP). Modification of the antibiotic molecule by bacterial enzymes.

Correct Answer:

Alteration of the drug's target site, the penicillin-binding protein (PBP).

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