Dive Deep into Success: Ace the 2025 Certified Hyperbaric Technologist Exam!

Question: 1 / 625

The powerful toxin produced by C. perfringens leads to the death of which type of cells?

Epithelial cells

Nerve cells

Muscle cells

The powerful toxin produced by Clostridium perfringens is primarily known for its destructive effects on muscle cells, which is why the correct answer is muscle cells. This organism produces a type of toxin known as alpha-toxin, which has phospholipase C activity that damages cell membranes and leads to cell lysis. This action particularly impacts muscle tissue, causing conditions such as gas gangrene, where the toxin results in rapid necrosis of muscle cells, ultimately contributing to severe tissue damage and systemic effects.

While epithelial cells, nerve cells, and red blood cells are also affected by various pathogens and toxins in different contexts, C. perfringens is notably associated with muscle damage. The specific targeting of muscle cells by its toxins is what distinguishes the pathology of infections caused by this organism. Understanding the effects of this pathogen is crucial in clinical settings, particularly when managing infections and implementing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which can aid in promoting healing in damaged muscle tissues.

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Red blood cells

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