1: Introduction to Infection

Question 1

What does the lymphatic system consist of? (3 things)

Answer 1

1. Fluid (lymph)
2. Vessels that transport lymph
3. Organs containing lymphoid tissue

Question 2

What are the functions of the immune system? (3 things)

Answer 2

1. Protection from pathogens
2. Removal of dead/damaged cells/components
3. Recognition n Removal of abnormal cells

Question 3

What can the failure of the immune system functions cause? (2 things)

Answer 3

1. Cancer

2. Autoimmune disorders

Question 4

What does a lack of immune system response indicate?

Answer 4

Immunodeficiency

Question 5

What are the physical/mechanical barriers? (5 things)

Answer 5

1. Skin
2. Mucus
3. Coughing / Sneezing
4. Tears
5. Urination

Question 6

What are the chemical barriers? (6 things)

Answer 6

1. Acid secretions
2. Sweat / Tears
3. Semen / Vaginal secretions
4. Respiratory enzymes
5. Salivary enzymes
6. Breast milk enzymes

Question 7

What are the basic concepts of infection?

Answer 7

Infections are caused when harmful germs (pathogens) enter body and multiply

Question 8

How do you know if a patient has an infection? (5 things)

Answer 8

1. History
2. Symptoms
3. Potential exposures
4. Examination (physical / organ dysfunctions)
5. Investigations (specific / supportive)

Question 9

What is the microbiome

Answer 9

The community of microbial organisms that live in and on eukaryotes

It is a virtual organ of the body

Question 10

How is microbiota acquired?

Answer 10

Vertically (parent to offspring)

Horizontally (microbial colonisation after germination / birth / hatching from environment)

Question 11

What is dysbiosis?

Answer 11

Alteration of gut microbia composition

A cause / consequence of disorders