The Fungi of Medical Importance

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to fungi of medical importance, including pathogens, infections, and characteristics.

mycosis

Human fungal disease due to a true or opportunistic pathogen.

dimorphism

The ability of a fungus to alternate between hyphal and yeast phases in response to temperature.

Candidiasis

An infection caused by Candida albicans, normal microbiota in pharynx, genitalia, and skin, accounting for ~70% of fungal HAIs.

Tinea

A fungal infection of nonliving skin, hair, and nails, also known as ringworm.

Histoplasma capsulatum

A primary true pathogen that causes Histoplasmosis, endemic in regions with soils high in bird guano.

Sporothrix schenckii

A pathogen with intermediate virulence that causes sporotrichosis, found in soil and decaying plant matter.

Opportunistic Mycoses

Infections caused by fungi that are normally not harmful but can cause disease in immunocompromised individuals.

Dermatophytosis

Fungal infection of the skin, specifically caused by dermatophytes which breakdown keratin.

Candida albicans

A type of yeast that can lead to infections such as vulvovaginal candidiasis, especially in those with disrupted normal flora.

Aspergillosis

An infection caused by Aspergillus species, associated with soil, decaying vegetation, and airborne contaminants.