Immunity and Infection

These flashcards cover key concepts related to pathogens, infectious diseases, and their treatments, helping students prepare for exams.

Pathogens

Microorganisms that can cause disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and parasitic worms.

Bacteria

Microscopic single-celled organisms that can cause various diseases.

Viruses

Infectious agents consisting of a protein shell enclosing DNA or RNA, which cannot reproduce independently.

Fungi

Multicellular (like molds) or unicellular (like yeasts) organisms, some of which can cause disease.

Protozoa

Single-celled organisms that can cause infections and are often transmitted through water or food.

Parasitic worms

Worms that live and feed on or in a host and cannot reproduce without their host.

Antibiotics

Drugs that inhibit the growth of bacteria or kill them, often used to treat bacterial infections.

Bacterial Meningitis

Inflammation of the meninges caused by bacterial infection, requiring immediate medical attention.

Common Cold

A viral infection caused by over 200 different viruses that attack the nasal passages.

Influenza

A viral infection causing inflammation of the respiratory tract with more severe symptoms than a common cold.

Candida Albicans

The most common type of fungus associated with yeast infections, prevalent in the vagina.

Zika Disease

An emerging infectious disease transmitted by mosquitoes, potentially leading to serious birth defects.

Ebola

A severe and often fatal viral disease characterized by fever, headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Malaria

A serious disease caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites, leading to fever and chills.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, and E), leading to various symptoms including jaundice.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

The most common sexually transmitted infection, associated with genital warts and several types of cancer.

Ringworm

A fungal skin infection characterized by a ring-shaped rash, often itchy and raised.

Athlete's Foot

A fungal infection of the foot that may cause peeling, itching, and redness.