Infectious Diseases Flashcards
What is the most important factor that increases the risk for fungal infection?
The use of steroids, especially in high doses or intranasal with Diabetic pts
How do fungal infections present?
In a progressive manner, very slowly.
What are the top 3 things to know in order to diagnose a pt with Criptococcus?
- Number of white cells found in lumbar puncture
- High opening pressure form puncture
- Increased protein levels found in the CSF
What is the hallmark of Criptococcus?
High opening pressure (anything higher than 180)
What two species can cause Criptococcus?
C. Neoformans and C. Gatti
How is Criptococcus infected?
Via air droplets and bird droppings
What is the most common manifestation of cryptococcal infection?
Meningitis
What are the main characteristics of a cryptococcal infection?
Malaise, fever (above 38.4), N/V, Cough/SOB, Altered mental status
What else can be seen with Criptococcus?
Papilledema, meningeal signs, cryptococcal antigen present in CSF
The treatment for Criptococcus is?
Amphotericin B and Fluconazole
Which infectious disease involves exposure to chicken coops?
Histoplasmosis
What are the main characteristics of Histoplasmosis?
Fever, weight loss, skin ulcers, Hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy
Which tests are utilized to detect Histoplasmosis?
Urine: H. Capsulatum antigen sensitivty
What is the treatment for Histoplasmosis?
Amphotericin B and or Itraconazole total 12 weeks (any -azole will work)
Pt has bilateral diffuse reticulonodular infiltrates in the lungs, and budding yeast forms from lymph node biopsy
Histoplasmosis
What are the four types of OPC Candidiasis?
- Erythematous
- Hyperplastic
- Angular Cheilitis
- Pseudomembranous
Oropharyngeal candidiasis is more common if the CD4 cell count is below what?
300
Esophagitis (candidiasis) is more common if the CD4 cell count in below what?
100
In most candidiasis cases, the strain causing the disease comes from where?
Patients own GI flora
What is the treatment for OPC?
Fluconazole 100mg/d x 14d or
Itraconaozle 200mg/d x 14d
Why should you avoid topical treatments for OPC?
Lower cure rates, higher relapse rates
What is the most common cause of dysphagia and odynophagis in AIDS?
Esophageal candidiasis
Fluconazole is the DOC for what?
Esophageal Candidiasis
What is the dosing for Fluconazole for esophageal candidiasis?
200 mg/d first day
100 mg/day other 13 days
Can use IV if pt cannot swallow