Brock Biology of Microorganisms: Eukaryotic Pathogens

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions from Eukaryotic Pathogens, focusing on fungi, protozoa, and helminths.

Pathogenic Fungi

Fungi that cause diseases, with about 50 species identified as pathogenic.

Mycelia

Visible masses formed by intertwining hyphae of fungi.

Mycoses

Fungal infections categorized into superficial, subcutaneous, and systemic.

Aflatoxins

Mycotoxins produced by certain fungi, known to be potent allergens.

Superficial Mycoses

Fungal infections that occur in the surface layers of skin, hair, or nails.

Dermatophytes

Fungi that colonize and infect the surface layers of skin, hair, or nails.

Entamoeba histolytica

A pathogenic protist causing amebic dysentery, transmitted through contaminated water.

Naegleria fowleri

A free-living amoeba causing a rare but severe infection, typically from warm water sources.

Giardia intestinalis

A flagellated anaerobic parasite responsible for giardiasis, a common waterborne illness.

Trichomonas vaginalis

A flagellated anaerobic parasite causing trichomoniasis, transmitted through sexual contact.

Toxoplasma gondii

A protist that causes toxoplasmosis, often leading to serious issues in immunocompromised individuals.

Malaria

A disease caused by Plasmodium spp., transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, affecting millions worldwide.

Leishmania

A genus of protozoan parasites causing leishmaniasis, transmitted by sandflies.

Filariasis

A disease caused by parasitic worms, often leading to severe swelling in infected areas.

Schistosomiasis

A disease caused by the trematode Schistosoma, requiring snails as part of its life cycle.

Onchocerciasis

Also known as river blindness, caused by Onchocerca volvulus, transmitted by blackflies.

Trichinosis

A disease caused by Trichinella spiralis, transmitted through undercooked meat.