Microbiology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Microbiology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Bacteremia specifically refers to the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. This condition can occur when bacteria enter the blood during certain medical procedures, infections, or as a result of deep tissue infections. The existence of bacteria in the blood can lead to serious complications, including sepsis, which is a life-threatening response to infection.

In contrast, the other options refer to different entities or components. Viruses, fungi, and antibodies each represent unique biological entities. Viruses are infectious agents that replicate inside the living cells of organisms. Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that include yeasts and molds, and harmful fungi can also lead to infections but are not classified under bacteremia. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders, but do not signify the presence of an infectious agent in the bloodstream itself.