Which organ is affected by typhoid?

Kidneys

Lungs

Intestines

Heart

Solution

Correct option is C

The correct answer is option (c) Intestines.

Explanation

Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi. This infection primarily affects the intestines, specifically the small intestine. The bacteria are ingested through contaminated food or water and then invade the intestinal wall, spreading into the bloodstream and throughout the body. Typhoid can cause symptoms such as high fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, and fatigue. The disease can also lead to serious complications if not treated, including intestinal perforation or bleeding.

While the primary site of infection is the intestines, the bacteria can also affect other organs through the bloodstream. However, the intestinal tract remains the primary organ system involved in typhoid fever.

Information Booster

Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi.
The disease commonly spreads through contaminated food or water.
The intestines are the primary site of infection, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea.
The small intestine is specifically where the bacteria multiply and invade.
Typhoid fever is treated with antibiotics, and early detection is crucial to prevent severe complications.

Additional Knowledge

Option (a) Kidneys: Typhoid fever does not primarily affect the kidneys. While the bacteria can spread throughout the body, the kidneys are not the primary organ impacted by the infection.
Option (b) Lungs: The lungs are not directly affected by typhoid fever. However, severe systemic infections can sometimes result in secondary complications affecting the lungs, but this is not the main site of infection.
Option (c) Intestines: The intestines are the primary organ affected by typhoid fever. The infection starts in the intestines and can cause inflammation, ulcers, and, in severe cases, perforation of the intestinal wall, leading to life-threatening complications.
Option (d) Heart: Typhoid fever does not directly affect the heart. Though systemic effects may sometimes involve multiple organs, the heart is not the primary organ targeted by the infection.