SURG 1415-01 Surgical Microbiology - Key Concepts in Infectious Diseases and Immunology

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and definitions related to surgical microbiology and infectious diseases.

Herd Immunity

Protection provided to a large group or community against infectious diseases when a sufficient proportion of individuals are immune.

Phagocytes

Blood components referred to as the body’s 'garbage collectors'; crucial for engulfing and digesting pathogens.

Leukocytes

White blood cells involved in the body's natural defense mechanism against infections.

Trachoma

Leading cause of preventable blindness globally, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.

Otitis Media

Common ear infection often treated with myringotomy procedures.

Rheumatic Fever

Complication of untreated streptococcal pharyngitis that can result in heart valve damage.

Shingles

Painful condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

Escherichia coli

The enterohemorrhagic strain produces Shiga toxin, causing severe gastrointestinal illness.

Clostridium difficile

Leading drug-resistant threat in the U.S., associated with significant infections and mortality rates.

Anaphylaxis

The most severe hypersensitivity reaction, potentially life-threatening.

Ghon Complexes

Calcified lesions associated with tuberculosis.

Acute Osteomyelitis

Primarily affects the epiphyseal plates of long bones, often in areas with decreased blood supply.

Anthrax

The most lethal route of transmission is through inhalation.

Endocarditis

Signs include Janeway lesions, Roth spots, and Osler nodes.

Gardnerella vaginalis

Characterized by clue cells and a foul-smelling gray-white discharge.

Integumentary System

Largest organ in the body; serves as the first line of defense against infections, environmental irritants, and UV radiation.

Childhood Vaccinations

No link to autism; misinformation stems from a discredited study.

Cholera Epidemic in Haiti (2010)

Traced to aid workers from Nepal who were carriers, highlighting the importance of sanitation and public health measures.