Level 2: CH 5 Disease and Disease-Producing Organisms

Flashcards for Chapter 5: Disease and Disease-Producing Organisms

Degenerative Disease

Involves tissue degeneration (breaking down)

Metabolic Disorder

Any disruption of cellular metabolism

Immune Disorder

Relates to the system that protects us from infectious diseases

Neoplasm

Refers to cancers

Acute

Disease that lasts for a short term

Chronic

Continuous or recurring for long periods

Pathogen

Disease-producing organism

Opportunistic Infection

Host has been compromised by disease (weakened)

Bacteria

Simple, single-cell organism, grows in many environments, lack a true nucleus

Virus

Composed of nucleic acid and protein. Can reproduce only within living cells - obligate intracellular parasites

Protozoa

Single-cell, animal-like organism

Microbiome

Population of microorganisms that normally grows on/within the human body

Endospore

Resistant form of bacteria that tolerates adverse conditions

Fungi

Simple plant-like organisms, few are pathogenic

Helminth

Worms that are parasites, with human hosts

Sterilize

Kills every organism in liquid or on an object

Disinfectant

Kills most microbes

Antiseptic

For skin and other living surfaces

Culture and Sensitivity Test

Identify the organism and its sensitivity to antibiotics

Degenerative Disease (definition)

Involves the breakdown of tissues

Symptoms

Examples include pain, fatigue, joint stiffness, nausea, anxiety

Signs

Examples include rash, rapid pulse, wheezing, fever, high blood pressure

Candida Infection

Antibiotics kill normal bacterial flora, which can allow this fungus to thrive

Dangers of Antibiotic Use

This can lead to opportunistic infections and antibiotic resistance

Endospores

Requires much greater time and temperature to ensure destruction during sterilization

Bacteria Definition

Simple, single celled organisms lacking a true nucleus.

Examples of Pathogens

Malaria, C. diff. colitis, Herpes, Candida vaginitis, and pinworm infestation.

Viral Treatment

Antibiotics are not effective; use antivirals.

Spore-forming Pathogens

Can easily become airborne, and resistant to ordinary methods of disinfection