Infectious Diseases (Part 1: General Terms)

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Questions and Answers

Endotoxin

A toxin found within the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, specifically the lipid A portion of lipopolysaccharides (LPS). It is only released when the bacteria die and can cause systemic inflammation and fever.

Exotoxin

A toxin actively secreted by bacteria (both Gram-positive and Gram-negative) that directly damages host tissues or interferes with normal physiological functions.

Exoenzyme

An enzyme secreted by bacteria that helps them invade tissues by breaking down host barriers, such as proteins and connective tissues.

Capsule

A thick, organized layer of polysaccharides or proteins surrounding some bacteria, protecting them from phagocytosis by immune cells. Signup and view all the answers

Slime Layer

A loosely attached, unorganized layer of extracellular material that helps bacteria adhere to surfaces and form biofilms. Signup and view all the answers

Fimbriae

Hair-like appendages on bacterial surfaces that help with attachment to host cells and surfaces. Signup and view all the answers

Hyaluronidase

An enzyme (also called "spreading factor") that breaks down hyaluronic acid in connective tissues, allowing bacteria to spread more easily. Signup and view all the answers

Exfoliating Toxin

A toxin (produced by some strains of Staphylococcus aureus) that causes skin layers to separate, leading to conditions like scalded skin syndrome. Signup and view all the answers

TSST-1 (Toxic Shock Syndrome Toxin-1

A superantigen toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus that triggers excessive immune activation, leading to toxic shock syndrome. Signup and view all the answers

Leucocidin

A bacterial toxin that destroys white blood cells (leukocytes), weakening the immune response. Signup and view all the answers

Streptokinase

An enzyme produced by Streptococcus species that dissolves blood clots, helping bacteria spread through tissues. Signup and view all the answers

M Protein

A surface protein found on Streptococcus pyogenes that helps the bacteria evade immune responses by preventing phagocytosis. Signup and view all the answers

F Protein

A bacterial protein that facilitates adhesion to host cells, particularly in Streptococcus pyogenes. Signup and view all the answers

Lipopolysaccharides (Lipid A)

A component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria that acts as an endotoxin, triggering strong immune responses and inflammation Signup and view all the answers

Body Sites with Resident Flora

Common areas where normal (resident) microbiota are found include the skin, mouth, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and urogenital tract. Signup and view all the answers

Endogenous infection

Caused by microbes that are already part of the body’s normal flora but become harmful due to changes in the immune system or microbiome balance. Signup and view all the answers

Exogenous infection

Caused by microbes from an external source (e.g., bacteria from another person, contaminated food, or the environment). Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Endotoxin

A toxin within Gram-negative bacteria's outer membrane (LPS). Released upon cell death, causing systemic inflammation and fever.

Exotoxin

A toxin secreted by bacteria that damages host tissues or interferes with normal functions.