The question concerns identifying a probable causative organism from a burn wound of a patient. The critical hint provided is that the organism is an "obligate aerobe." Among the options given, it is essential to decide which organism fits that description.
To solve this, we need to evaluate the characteristics of each option:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa: This bacterium is a well-known obligate aerobe. It thrives in environments with oxygen and is commonly associated with infections in burn wounds due to its adaptability and resistance.
- Meningococcus: Typically refers to Neisseria meningitidis, a facultative anaerobe, not an obligate aerobe. It is primarily associated with bacterial meningitis and sepsis but not common in burn infections.
- Streptococcus pyogenes: This is a facultative anaerobe associated more with skin infections like cellulitis but less commonly isolated from burn wounds.
- Pneumococcus: Refers to Streptococcus pneumoniae, another facultative anaerobe, known for causing pneumonia, otitis media, and meningitis.
Considering the clues and known characteristics, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most plausible culprit given its status as an obligate aerobe and its prevalence in burn wound infections.
Thus, the causative organism is Pseudomonas aeruginosa.