Pathogenic Bacteria Overview

Flashcards summarizing key pathogenic bacteria covered in lecture notes.

Staphylococcus aureus

A Gram-positive bacterium known for causing infections such as skin infections, pneumonia, and food poisoning.

Streptococcus pyogenes

A Gram-positive bacterium associated with diseases like strep throat and rheumatic fever.

Clostridium botulinum

A Gram-positive bacterium that produces botulinum toxin, leading to botulism.

Escherichia coli (E. coli)

A Gram-negative bacterium that can cause food poisoning and is also part of the normal gut flora.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

A Gram-negative bacterium that causes the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea.

Vibrio cholerae

A Gram-negative bacterium responsible for cholera, characterized by severe diarrhea.

Treponema pallidum

A spirochete bacterium that causes syphilis.

Helicobacter pylori

A Gram-negative bacterium linked to peptic ulcers and gastritis.

Lancefield groups

Classification system for streptococci based on carbohydrate composition of antigens found on the bacteria's cell wall.

Virulence factors

Structures, enzymes, and toxins produced by pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus that enable them to cause disease.

Transmission

The process by which pathogens like bacteria are spread from one host to another.

Prevention

Measures taken to avoid infection, which may include vaccinations, hygiene practices, and controlling vectors.

Peptic ulcers

Sores on the lining of the stomach or duodenum caused by factors including infection with Helicobacter pylori.