Parasitic and Fungal Infections: Detection Methods

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to parasitic and fungal infections, focusing on detection methods and immune responses.

Parasitic infection

An invasion of the body by a parasite, which can result in disease or immune response.

Sequestering

The process by which parasites hide within host cells to evade detection by the immune system.

Autoimmunity

A condition in which the immune system attacks the body's own cells, often triggered by parasitic infections.

Cytokines

Proteins released by the immune system that play a role in cell signaling during immune responses.

Toxoplasmosis

Infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii, acquired through ingestion of infective cysts or oocytes.

Agglutination reaction

A serologic test that detects the presence of antibodies by the clumping of particles.

Malaria

A disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.

Immunocompromised

A state in which the immune system is weakened, making the body more susceptible to infections.

Candida species

A group of fungi that are part of the normal flora of the body but can cause opportunistic infections.

Enzyme immunoassay

A serologic test method used to detect the presence of antibodies or antigens by utilizing enzymes.

Complement fixation test

A quantitative method used to diagnose infections by determining the presence of specific antibodies.

LaTex agglutination

A method used to detect specific antigens or antibodies through the agglutination of latex particles.

Coccidioidomycosis

An infectious disease caused by the fungus Coccidioides, typically detected through serologic tests.