Microbiology - Parasitic Protozoa, Helminths, and Arthropod Vectors

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to parasitic protozoa, helminths, and arthropod vectors, drawn from lecture notes on microbiology.

Parasitology

The study of parasites, their hosts, and the interactions between them.

Protozoa

Unicellular eukaryotic organisms that can be either free-living or parasitic.

Helminths

Multicellular, eukaryotic worms that are parasitic.

Ciliates

Protozoa that use cilia for movement and feeding, such as Balantidium coli.

Amoebae

Protozoa that move and feed by extending pseudopods.

Trophozoite

The active, feeding, and reproducing form of protozoa.

Cyst

The resistant form of protozoa that can survive in the environment until ingested.

Excystment

The process by which a cyst hatches and releases a trophozoite in the host.

Encystment

The process by which trophozoites form cysts to survive harsh conditions.

Vector

An organism that transmits pathogens from one host to another.

Biological vector

A vector that carries pathogens within its body and may multiply or develop therein.

Mechanical vector

A vector that carries pathogens but does not serve as a host.

Toxoplasma gondii

The causative agent of toxoplasmosis, transmitted via undercooked meat or cat feces.

Giardia intestinalis

The causative agent of giardiasis, which is transmitted through contaminated water and food.

Trypanosoma cruzi

The causative agent of Chagas’ disease, transmitted by kissing bugs.

Trypanosoma brucei

The causative agent of African sleeping sickness, transmitted by tsetse flies.

Leishmania spp.

Causes leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand flies.

Schistosoma

A genus of trematodes that causes schistosomiasis, often found in freshwater.

Ascaris lumbricoides

The causative agent of ascariasis, the most common nematode infection worldwide.

Ancylostoma duodenale

A species of hookworm that infects humans by penetrating the skin.

Enterobius vermicularis

Commonly known as the pinworm, primarily infects humans and causes intense itching.

Cryptosporidium parvum

Causative agent of Cryptosporidium enteritis, often found in contaminated water.

Cyclospora cayetanensis

Causes cyclosporiasis, typically linked to contaminated food and water.

Plasmodium spp.

Causative agents of malaria, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.

Antimalarial drugs

Medication used to treat infections caused by Plasmodium.

Filarial nematode

A type of roundworm that infects the lymphatic system, causing filariasis.

Hydatid cysts

Cysts formed by Echinococcus granulosus that can cause hydatid disease.

Balantidiasis

An infection caused by Balantidium coli, often asymptomatic but can lead to dysentery.

Immunoassay

A diagnostic test that measures the presence of antibodies or antigens.

Personal hygiene

Practices that help maintain health and prevent the spread of infections.

Public health measures

Activities aimed at promoting health and preventing diseases in populations.

Anthelmintic drugs

Medications used to treat infections caused by helminths.