Summer Microbe Set 5 Vocabulary

This flashcard set covers the vocabulary terms, microbe types, and distinguishing features for common infectious agents listed in Summer Microbe Set 5.

Epstein-Barr Virus

An enveloped virus that causes Mononucleosis; it is most commonly transmitted via saliva and is characterized by extreme fatigue, hepatomegaly, and/or splenomegaly.

Hepatomegaly and Splenomegaly

Hallmark symptoms of Mononucleosis characterized by an enlarged liver and enlarged spleen, respectively.

Streptococcus pyogenes (Pharyngitis)

A gram-positive, streptococci or diplococci bacterium causing strep throat with symptoms including odynophagia and palatal petechiae.

Odynophagia

A term for painful swallowing, which is a symptom of Pharyngitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

Palatal petechiae

Small red spots on the roof of the mouth, identified as a symptom of Pharyngitis (strep throat).

Streptococcus pyogenes (Scarlet fever)

A gram-positive bacterium that causes hallmark symptoms of strawberry tongue, a red rash with a sandpaper feel, and a whitish coating on the tongue.

Rhinovirus

A non-enveloped virus that causes the common cold, typically transmitted via respiratory droplets.

Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV)

An enveloped virus transmitted through respiratory droplets that causes symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and fever.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

An unencapsulated, gram-negative bacillus often found in contaminated water sources like hot tubs and pools; it causes folliculitis characterized by an itchy rash that forms pustules.

Staphylococcus aureus (Toxic shock syndrome)

A gram-positive staphylococci bacterium that produces a toxin; its major distinguishing feature is desquamation, particularly on the hands and feet.

Desquamation

The peeling of skin, specifically on the hands and feet, which is a hallmark of Toxic shock syndrome caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Staphylococcus aureus – MRSA

A gram-positive staphylococci bacterium that most often causes skin infections characterized by redness, swelling, pus, and warmth; it is treated with Vancomycin.

Vancomycin

The antibiotic used to treat skin infections caused by MRSA (Staphylococcus aureus).

Listeria monocytogenes

A gram-positive bacillus transmitted via the ingestion of contaminated foods such as unpasteurized dairy and deli meats; it causes Listeriosis.

Listeriosis

A disease caused by Listeria monocytogenes presenting with fever, diarrhea, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance.

Helicobacter pylori

A gram-negative spirochete causing Peptic ulcer disease; symptoms include epigastric pain with a gnawing or burning sensation shortly after a meal.

Clostridium tetani

A gram-positive bacillus that forms spores and exotoxins; it enters the body through broken skin to cause Tetanus, which is characterized by jaw cramping and muscle spasms.

Tetanus immune globulin

A specific treatment component for Tetanus, alongside antibiotics, muscle relaxers, and wound care.

Leptospira interrogans

A gram-negative spirochete that causes Leptospirosis; it is transmitted through contact with urine, water, soil, or food contaminated by animals.

Leptospirosis

A disease caused by Leptospira interrogans with symptoms including jaundice, red eyes, high fever, and abdominal pain.