Microorganisms and Human Defenses

Flashcards covering key concepts about microorganisms, immune responses, and health implications.

What are the three main types of microorganisms based on cell type?

Bacteria (prokaryotic), Fungi (eukaryotic), Viruses (acellular).

What is the primary characteristic that differentiates bacteria from viruses?

Bacteria are prokaryotic cells with a cell wall, while viruses are acellular and lack a cellular structure.

How do fungi reproduce?

Fungi can reproduce sexually and asexually via spores.

What are protozoa and how do they move?

Protozoa are eukaryotic microorganisms that can move using flagella, cilia, or pseudopodia.

What is the role of normal flora in human health?

Normal flora helps protect against pathogens, aids in digestion, synthesizes vitamins, and supports the immune system.

What type of immune response is provided by innate immunity?

Innate immunity provides a rapid, non-specific response to pathogens.

What is the difference between humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity?

Humoral immunity involves antibodies produced by B cells, while cell-mediated immunity involves T cells attacking infected or cancerous cells.

What causes tuberculosis (TB), and how is it primarily transmitted?

TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is primarily transmitted through airborne droplets.

What are the common diagnostic methods for detecting HIV?

Common diagnostic methods include ELISA, Western Blot Test, and PCR.

How does C. difficile infection occur and what are its symptoms?

C. difficile infection occurs through fecal-oral transmission often after antibiotic use, causing watery diarrhea and abdominal cramping.

What are nosocomial infections, and how do they impact patient care?

Nosocomial infections are infections acquired in healthcare settings, impacting patient morbidity, mortality, and increasing healthcare costs.

What are some characteristics of opportunistic pathogens?

Opportunistic pathogens are normally harmless microbes that cause infections when the host's immune system is compromised.

What is dysbiosis and its potential impact on human health?

Dysbiosis is an imbalance in normal flora that can lead to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.

What are broad-spectrum antibiotics?

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are effective against a wide range of bacteria, while narrow-spectrum antibiotics target specific bacteria.

What components make up the innate immune system?

Key components include physical barriers like skin, chemical barriers such as lysozyme, and cellular defenses like phagocytes.