Which type of pathogenic toxin primarily allows the pathogen to enter the host by disrupting host cell membranes?

• A. Enterotoxin
• B. Hemolysin
• C. Superantigen
• D. Neurotoxin

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the types of toxins listed: Enterotoxins affect the intestines, Superantigens cause excessive immune activation, Neurotoxins affect nerve cells, and Hemolysins disrupt cell membranes, especially red blood cells.
2. Recall that the question asks for the toxin that primarily allows the pathogen to enter the host by disrupting host cell membranes, which involves breaking down or lysing cells.
3. Identify that Hemolysins are a class of toxins known for their ability to lyse host cells by forming pores or disrupting the lipid bilayer of membranes.
4. Compare the functions of the other toxins: Enterotoxins target intestinal cells but do not primarily disrupt membranes to allow entry; Superantigens trigger immune responses without membrane disruption; Neurotoxins interfere with nerve signaling.
5. Conclude that the toxin type that facilitates pathogen entry by disrupting host cell membranes is Hemolysin, due to its membrane-lysing activity.