PROTOZOA 2

Protozoa

Single-celled microorganisms that can cause diseases, often spread through water, vectors, and less commonly through food or sexual transmission.

Cyst

The inert, resistant form of protozoa that can survive in harsh environmental conditions, often found in contaminated water.

Trophozoite

The active, feeding, and reproducing form of protozoa, which develops from a cyst when it enters a suitable environment.

Giardia lamblia

A species of protozoan that causes gastrointestinal illness, primarily spread through contaminated drinking water.

Cryptosporidium

A waterborne protozoan parasite that can cause severe diarrhea, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Keratitis

An infection of the cornea, often caused by Acanthamoeba in contact lens wearers, which can lead to vision loss.

Metronidazole

An antibiotic commonly used to treat anaerobic infections and protozoan diseases, such as Giardia.

Apicomplexan

A group of parasitic protozoa that includes Cryptosporidium and Plasmodium, characterized by a complex life cycle.

Waterborne diseases

Diseases caused by pathogens transmitted through contaminated water sources.

Steatorrhea

The presence of excess fat in feces, often associated with Giardia infection.

Immunocompromised

A state where an individual’s immune system is weakened, making them more susceptible to infections.

Vector-borne infections

Infections transmitted through vectors like insects, important in protozoan diseases such as malaria.

Acanthamoeba

A genus of protozoa that can cause keratitis, especially in contact lens users, largely found in water.

Diarrheal disease

Conditions characterized by frequent loose or liquid stools, common in infections like Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

Fecal concentration test

A laboratory method for detecting parasites in stool samples by concentrating eggs and cysts.

Chronic infection

A long-lasting infection that can cause persistent symptoms, exemplified by prolonged Giardia infection.

Eukaryotes

Organisms whose cells contain a nucleus, including protozoa like Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

Apoptosis

A form of programmed cell death that may be induced by pathogens like Giardia in host cells.

Microscopy techniques

Methods used to examine samples under a microscope, crucial for diagnosing protozoan infections.

Potable water

Drinkable water that is safe from pathogens and contaminants, essential for public health.