University of Central Florida (UCF) MCB3203 Pathogenic Microbiology Practice Exam 2

Otitis media is indeed a disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is a major pathogen responsible for this common ear infection, particularly in children. This organism can infect the middle ear, leading to inflammation and filling it with fluid, which causes pain and can affect hearing.

S. pneumoniae is known for its role in various respiratory infections because it commonly colonizes the nasopharynx. It has a capsule that helps it evade the host's immune system, making it a significant cause of diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, and otitis media.

While bronchitis and sinusitis can also be caused by a range of pathogens, including viruses and other bacteria, they are not classically associated with S. pneumoniae to the same extent as otitis media. Cholera, on the other hand, is specifically caused by Vibrio cholerae and is unrelated to S. pneumoniae. This reinforces the specific connection between S. pneumoniae and ear infections, particularly otitis media.