A researcher performs an autopsy on a 49-year-old man who passed away following a rupture of the aorta. He was from Papua New Guinea and had not received any prior care. The researcher notes a characteristic “tree bark” appearance of the aorta on gross inspection.
Which of the following best describes the causal organism?
A) Associated with patent ductus arteriosus in neonates
B) Cord factor is a virulence factor
C) Morphologically resembles a question mark
D) Treated first-line with high-dose amoxicillin
E) Visualized with dark field microscopy
