Fungal genera

Question 1

Genus Trichophyton

Answer 1

one of the so-called “dermatophyte” genera, this fungus produces keratinases that allow it to digest, and thus live in, the keratin abundant hair, skin, or nail tissue. Trichophyton is thus responsible for many fungal infections of the hair, skin and nails

Question 2

Genus Epidermophyton

Answer 2

another dermatophyte genus, Epidermophyton usually affects only skin and nails

Question 3

Genus Microsporum

Answer 3

a third dermatophyte genus, Microsporum tends to prefer hair or skin to nails

Question 4

Genus Candida

Answer 4

this is the yeast genus responsible for most of human yeast infections, both of the vagina and the mouth (where the infection is called thrush)

Question 5

Genus Histoplasma

Answer 5

often abundant in deposits of bird or bat droppings, humans become infected by inhalation. This fungus can grow in the lungs and occasionally enter the bloodstream, causing a dangerous generalized infection (histoplasmosis)

Question 6

Genus Aspergillus

Answer 6

a common mold that can grow on plants, and sometimes produces very toxic aflatoxins. Corn and peanuts are particularly susceptible to aflatoxin contamination. Consumption of aflatoxin, even in small amounts, can cause serious illness in humans and livestock

Question 7

Genus Pneumocystis

Answer 7

historically thought to be a protozan, recent evidence suggests that this organism is a fungus. Although mostly harmless to healthy people, Pneumocystis pneumonia is a significant illness in people with HIV/AIDS