Introduction to Fungi Flashcards
What does the cell wall of a fungus contain?
Polysaccharides, often chitin or cellulose.
Does a fungi form spores?
Yes
Does a fungi contain chlorophyl?
No
What is the informal classification of fungi?
moulds, yeasts or mushrooms
What is the cell type of a fungi?
They favour a unicellular habitat
What kind of infections are by dermatophytes?
ringworm and related diseases
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What is the prefix for a ringworm infection?
tinea
What is the action of dermatophytes on keratin?
Moulds with a predilection(liking) to degrade keratin as a nutrient source.
What does a pityriasis versicolor cause on the skin?
Forms hyphae in infected skin
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What do candida species infect?
Deep organs of patients with various types of immune dysfunction
What do aspergillus spp infect?
Infects deep organs of patients undergoing e.g chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation
What is a favourable micro-environment that will contribute to pathogenicity of a fungal infection?
Warm moist areas - encourages the growth of fungi on skin and mucous membranes. Broad spectrum antibacterial agents reduce competition for epithelial colonization sites in the gut. Immunosuppression of all types may create a window of opportunity for fungal invasion
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Describe the immunosuppression of host defences
Disease processes - Aids Leukaemia
Anti-cancer chemotherapy
Iatrogenic (caused by medical examination or treatment)
Steroids
Endocrinopathies
Solid organ transplantation
Where are candida species commensal to?
The GI tract
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What are risk factors for candidiasis?
Age, antibiotic therapy, endocrine disorders, immune defects, immune suppression, surgery