Introduction to Mycology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the study of mycology and fungal infections.

Mycology

The study of fungi.

Fungi

Eukaryotic organisms that are complex compared to prokaryotes like bacteria.

Saprophytes

Organisms that feed on dead organic matter.

Mycosis

Infection caused by fungi.

Mycotoxicosis

Infection caused by a fungal toxin.

Ergosterol

A component of fungal cell membranes that helps maintain cell strength.

Chitin

A substance making up the cell wall of fungi, providing protection and shape.

Hyphae

Long, thread-like structures that make up the body of molds.

Septum

Walls within hyphae that divide them into sections.

Mycelium

An intertwined mass of hyphae that forms the main body of molds.

Dimorphic fungi

Fungi that can exist as either yeast or mold depending on environmental temperature.

Zygospores

Spores formed from the fusion of two cells creating a diploid cell.

Basidiospores

Club-shaped spores produced by fungi.

Ascospores

Spores enclosed in a sac-like structure called an ascus.

Sporotrichosis

A disease caused by Sporothrix schenckii, characterized by necrotic ulcerative nodules.

Candida albicans

A type of fungus that can cause opportunistic infections such as oral thrush.

Cryptococcus neoformans

A capsulated yeast that can cause meningitis and is transmitted via inhalation.

Pneumocystis jirovecii

A fungus that causes pneumonia, particularly in immunocompromised patients.