2001 General Studies, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2001 · General Studies

Question 134: Science and Technology

“Athlete’s Foot” is a disease caused by

aBacteria
bFungus
cProtozoan
dNematode

AnswerThe answer is (b).

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection caused by dermatophyte fungi, which thrive in warm, damp places such as sweaty shoes. It causes itching, peeling and cracking of the skin between the toes. Remember that ringworm is also a fungal disease despite its name and is not caused by a worm.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) It is not caused by bacteria.
  • (b) Right: a fungal infection.
  • (c) Protozoa cause malaria and amoebiasis, not athlete's foot.
  • (d) Nematodes are roundworms that cause infections such as filariasis.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2001, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.