In dimorphic pathogens, which statement correctly assigns forms to temperatures?

In dimorphic pathogens, which statement correctly assigns forms to temperatures?

• A. Mold/hyphal form is favored at 25°C and yeast form at 37°C
• B. Yeast form is favored at 25°C and mold form at 37°C
• C. Dimorphic fungi exist only in one form
• D. Temperature has no effect on form

Answer: (A)

Dimorphic fungi switch forms with temperature: environmental 25°C favors a mold with hyphae, while body temperature around 37°C triggers a yeast form. This mold-to-yeast transition is what allows these pathogens to exist in the environment as filaments and to thrive as yeasts inside a human host, aiding infection and survival. Therefore, the statement mold/hyphal form at 25°C and yeast form at 37°C is the correct description. The other options conflict with the established pattern, either reversing the temperatures, claiming only one form, or saying temperature has no effect.

Dimorphic fungi switch forms with temperature: environmental 25°C favors a mold with hyphae, while body temperature around 37°C triggers a yeast form. This mold-to-yeast transition is what allows these pathogens to exist in the environment as filaments and to thrive as yeasts inside a human host, aiding infection and survival. Therefore, the statement mold/hyphal form at 25°C and yeast form at 37°C is the correct description. The other options conflict with the established pattern, either reversing the temperatures, claiming only one form, or saying temperature has no effect.