Infectious Diseases Affecting the Respiratory Systems

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to infectious diseases affecting the respiratory system as discussed in the lecture.

Upper respiratory tract

The part of the respiratory system that includes the mouth, nose, nasal cavity, sinuses, throat, epiglottis, and larynx.

Lower respiratory tract

The part of the respiratory system consisting of the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

Respiratory defenses

Mechanical and immune responses including nasal hair, cilia, mucus, complement, antimicrobial peptides, cytokines, and macrophages that protect against infection.

Streptococcus pyogenes

A group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus responsible for many cases of pharyngitis and can lead to serious complications.

Pharyngitis

An inflammatory condition of the throat often caused by viruses or bacteria, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes.

Antigenic drift

The gradual mutation of viral antigens (H and N proteins) resulting in altered virus recognition by the immune system.

Pneumonia

An inflammatory condition of the lungs characterized by the filling of alveoli with fluid, potentially caused by various microorganisms.

Tuberculosis

An infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Pneumonia contracted by a person with little contact with the healthcare system, commonly caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Influenza

A viral respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses A, B, or C, often leading to seasonal epidemics.

Ciliary escalator

A defense mechanism of the respiratory tract involving cilia that propel particles and mucus out of the respiratory passages.

MDR-TB

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, a form of TB resistant to at least isoniazid and rifampin, requiring extensive treatment.

Erythrogenic toxin

A toxin produced by certain strains of Streptococcus pyogenes that is responsible for causing scarlet fever.

Vaccination

A preventive measure against infectious diseases, including various vaccines available for influenza and whooping cough.