Introduction to Clinical Mycology

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions from the lecture on clinical mycology.

Mycology

The scientific discipline dealing with fungi.

Mycologists

Scientists who study fungi.

Mycoses

Diseases caused in animals by fungi.

Hyphae

Tubules made up of fungal cells connected end to end.

Yeast

Unicellular organisms that often reproduce asexually by budding.

Fungi

Multicellular organisms consisting of hyphae that form mycelium.

Opportunistic Pathogens

Organisms of low intrinsic virulence that can cause infections in immunocompromised patients.

Candidiasis

Fungal infection caused by Candida species, often resulting in thrush.

Dermatophytes

Fungi that cause superficial fungal infections affecting the skin, hair, and nails.

Mycelium

Extensive interwoven mesh formed by filamentous hyphae.

Dimorphic Fungi

Fungi that can grow either as yeast or mould depending on environmental conditions.

Pityriasis versicolor

Fungal skin condition caused by Malassezia furfur, resulting in patchy, discolored skin.

Aspergillosis

A disease caused by Aspergillus species, ranging from allergic reactions to invasive infections.

Histoplasmosis

A systemic fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, often presenting as a respiratory illness.

Candidemia

Candida infection of the bloodstream.

Erythema

Redness of the skin caused by inflammation.

Thrush

Oral yeast infection typically caused by Candida, characterized by white patches.

Filamentous Fungi

Fungi composed of long, threadlike structures called hyphae.