Microbiology Flashcards
What is diphtheria?
A bacterial infection causing a severe more throat with a grey white membrane (pseudomembrane) across the pharynx
What organism causes diphtheria?
Corynebacterium diphtheria
What toxin does corynebacterium diphtheria produce?
A potent exotoxin that is cardio and neurotoxic
How can you prevent getting diphtheria?
It is vaccine preventable
What is the treatment of diphtheria?
antitoxin
supportive
penicillin or erythromycin if allergic
What are some late complications of Strep. throat?
Glomerulonephritis - 1-3 weeks post sore throat, haematuria, oedema, albuminuria
Rheumatoid fever - 3 weeks post sore throat, fever, arthritis, pancarditis
What is the treatment of Strep. throat?
Penicillin
What is the clinical presentation of oral thrush?
White patches on red, raw mucous membranes
What is the treatment of oral thrush?
Nystatin
What causes oral thrush?
Candida albicans
What is Type 1 Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)?
- acquired in childhood
- cause of oral lesions
- 50% of genital herpes (type 2 other 50%)
What is primary gingivostomatitis?
Extensive ulceration in and around the mouth
As well as systemic upset
What causes primary gingivostomatitis?
HSV type 1
What is the treatment of primary gingivostomatitis?
acyclovir
What is herpangina?
Vesicles/ ulcers on the soft palate
