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Questions and Answers
What is the structure of yeasts?
Where are most human pathogens located among fungi?
What factors predispose someone to an opportunistic mycosis?
Why are fungal infections sometimes difficult to treat?
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How are fungal spores different from bacterial spores?
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Study Notes
Yeast Structure
- Yeasts are eukaryotic microorganisms, typically 3-5 μm in diameter
- Have a cell wall composed of chitin, glucans, and mannoproteins
- Possess a true nucleus, mitochondria, and other membrane-bound organelles
Human Pathogens among Fungi
- Most human pathogens are found among the Ascomycota and Basidiomycota phyla
- Examples include Candida, Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, and Histoplasma
Opportunistic Mycosis Predisposing Factors
- Weakened immune system due to diseases like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or taking immunosuppressive drugs
- Prolonged use of antibiotics, which can disrupt normal microbial flora
- Invasive medical procedures, such as IV lines or surgical wounds
- Skin or mucosal damage, providing a portal of entry for fungi
Difficulty in Treating Fungal Infections
- Fungal cells have a similar structure to human cells, making it difficult to develop targeted treatments
- Fungi can develop resistance to antifungal medications
- Fungal infections often present with non-specific symptoms, making diagnosis challenging
Fungal Spores vs. Bacterial Spores
- Fungal spores are often more resistant to environmental stressors, such as heat, radiation, and chemicals
- Fungal spores can remain dormant for extended periods, allowing them to survive hostile environments
- Bacterial spores are typically more sensitive to heat and radiation, but can survive longer periods of dryness and nutrient deprivation
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Description
Test your knowledge of fungi in microbiology with this exam review quiz. Learn about the differences in structure between molds, yeasts, and dimorphic fungi, as well as the location of most human pathogens. This quiz covers topics such as yeast reproduction, pseudohyphae production, and the characteristics of molds and dimorphic fungi.
