What are endotoxins?

• A. Toxins that are completely destroyed during sterilization
• B. Toxins released when bacterial cells disintegrate
• C. Substances only found outside bacterial cells
• D. Non-harmful compounds in medical devices

Answer: (B)

Endotoxins are a specific type of toxin that are released when bacterial cells disintegrate, particularly from the cell walls of gram-negative bacteria. They are composed of lipopolysaccharides and are an integral part of the bacterial outer membrane. When the bacteria die and the cells break apart, these endotoxins are released into the surrounding environment. This release can trigger a strong immune response in humans and can lead to fever, inflammation, and even septic shock in severe cases.

Understanding the nature of endotoxins is crucial in medical fields, especially in sterilization processes and the preparation of medical devices. Ensuring that endotoxins are eliminated is vital because they can compromise patient safety and lead to serious complications.

Other options do not accurately describe endotoxins. For example, they are not completely destroyed during sterilization; rather, their heat stability can vary, requiring specific methods to adequately eliminate them. Additionally, endotoxins are not exclusive to external microbial environments, and they are certainly not non-harmful compounds found in medical devices. These distinctions highlight the importance of acknowledging endotoxins’ origins and effects in clinical settings.