Clinical Medical Assistant Exam Practice Question

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus, is the primary bacterium responsible for strep throat, leading to symptoms like sore throat and fever due to its ability to produce toxins.

Option A, Streptococcus pneumoniae, is primarily associated with pneumonia and meningitis, not strep throat. Option B, Staphylococcus aureus, is linked to skin infections and food poisoning, rather than respiratory illnesses. Option C, Haemophilus influenzae, can cause respiratory infections but is not the main agent of strep throat. Thus, D is the only option directly associated with this specific throat infection.