History, Key Theorists And Key Pathogens Flashcards
What historical figure is associated with the concept of spontaneous generation?
Aristotle
He proposed the idea of ‘pneuma’ or vital heat.
Who disproved spontaneous generation using swan-neck flasks?
Louis Pasteur
His work was pivotal in microbiology.
What is Koch’s postulate?
A framework to establish a causative relationship between a microbe and a disease.
It includes criteria such as the microbe being found in diseased organisms and not in healthy ones.
What significant discovery did Alexander Fleming make?
Isolated β-lactam from Penicillium chrysogenum in 1929
This led to the development of antibiotics to treat infections.
What was the role of Ignaz Semmelweis in microbiology?
Promoted handwashing to prevent puerperal fever.
His observations linked hygiene practices to patient outcomes.
What are Winogradsky columns used for?
To study microbial ecology in lab-based microcosms.
They help demonstrate relationships between microorganisms and their habitats.
Fill in the blank: The most common Gram-negative bacterium in the gastrointestinal tract is _______.
Escherichia coli
What is the main cause of tuberculosis?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
It is transmitted via the airborne route.
What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?
Cough with bloody phlegm, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, fever
These symptoms can indicate a severe infection.
What is the treatment for influenza?
Standard care includes rest and paracetamol; Tamiflu in severe cases
Prevention strategies are also crucial.
True or False: Influenza virus is transferred from host via airborne droplets.
True
What is the role of probiotics in microbial ecology?
They are used therapeutically to benefit gut health.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits.
What is the global death toll from influenza annually?
290,000–650,000 deaths worldwide
This figure highlights the impact of influenza on public health.
What is the importance of handwashing in preventing Escherichia coli infections?
It helps prevent intestinal illnesses and nosocomial infections.
Proper hygiene practices are essential for infection control.
Fill in the blank: The BCG vaccine is used for the prevention of _______.
Tuberculosis
What are the main causes of staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Invades bloodstream to produce virulence factors
How is Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) detected
Via culture, nucleic acid tests, antibiotic susceptibility
What are the symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Skin swelling, redness, infection
Which can then lead to bloodstream infections and pneumonia
What are the symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Skin swelling, redness, infection
Which can then lead to bloodstream infections and pneumonia
