Module 2 Immunity & Neoplasms

Question 0

Explain the role of normal microbial flora.

Answer 0

Resident flora benefits:
Synthesize molecules
Inhibit growth of non-resident microorganisms

If immune system is compromised, resident flora may become pathogenic and cause opportunistic infection.

Question 1

Describe microorganism characteristics that influence the development of infection

Answer 1

Virulence, toxin production, microbial adherence, & invasiveness.

Adherence improved by adhesion molecules, slime layers and pili.

Escape from immune detection and destruction enhanced by encapsulation, spore formation, mutation, use of flagella and toxin production.

Question 2

Differentiate between infection and inflammation.

Answer 2

Infection: a pathologic process caused by a microorganism.

Inflammation: the body’s protective responses the site of injury or tissue destruction.

**Although inflammation is usually present with infection, inflammation can exist without infection; the two are not synonymous.