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Microbiology - Diseases of the Reproductive System

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Study GuideMicrobiology–Diseases of the Reproductive System1.Fungal and Protozoal Diseases of the Reproductive SystemThe reproductive system can be affected by infections caused byfungiandprotozoa. Theseinfections often develop when the normal balance of microorganisms in the body is disturbed or whenpathogens are transmitted through close contact. Below are two important examples.1.1Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)Candidiasis, commonly known as ayeast infection, is caused by the fungusCandida albicans.This infection often occurs when thenormal bacterial populationof the reproductive tract isreduced. A common reason for this imbalance is theoveruse of antibiotics, which kill helpfulbacteria along with harmful ones. When this happens,Candidacan grow rapidly.Typical symptoms include:•Intense itching (pruritus)•Irritated or inflamed tissues•Lesions similar to those seen in oral thrush•Ayellowish, thick, cheesy dischargeDiagnosis is usually made bydirect visual observationof the yeast cells in clinical samples.Treatment is effective with antifungal medications such as:•Nystatin•Clotrimazole•Miconazole1.2TrichomoniasisTrichomoniasis is theonly protozoal diseaseof the reproductive system. It is caused by theflagellated protozoanTrichomonas vaginalis.

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Study GuideThe organism lives and multiplies along themucosal lining of the reproductive tract. Infection oftencauses discomfort and noticeable changes in discharge.Common symptoms include:•Internal irritation or discomfort•Aprofuse green-yellow discharge•A strong, unpleasant odorThe organism can be identified by examiningurine or discharge samplesunder a microscope.Treatment is usually straightforward and successful with the drugmetronidazole.Key TakeawayFungal and protozoal infections of the reproductive system are common and usually treatable.2.Bacterial Diseases of the Reproductive SystemThe male and female reproductive systems are connected to the outside environment, which makes iteasier for bacteria to enter. Once inside, infections can spread to deeper tissues and organs,sometimes leading to serious complications if not treated promptly.2.1GonorrheaGonorrhea is one of themost commonly reported infectious diseases. It is caused byNeisseriagonorrhoeae, aGram-negative diplococcus.The bacteria attach to the lining of theurethrain both males and females, causingurethritis.Gonorrhea is spread throughsexual contact.Symptoms•Malesoften have more noticeable symptoms, including:oPain during urinationoA thick, whitish discharge from the urethra•Femalesmay have mild or no symptoms, which can delay diagnosis

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Study GuideTreatment with antibiotics such aspenicillin, tetracycline, and othersis usually effective.ComplicationsIf untreated, gonorrhea can cause serious problems:•In females, scarring of theFallopian tubes, leading tosterility•In males, blockage of theepididymis or vas deferens•Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)in females, affecting the uterus, cervix, and ovaries•Infection of other areas such as the rectum, throat, joints, meninges, or eyesNewborns exposed during birth may developgonococcal ophthalmia, a serious eye infection.Preventive treatment withsilver nitrate or erythromycinshortly after birth is effective.2.2ChlamydiaChlamydia is caused byChlamydia trachomatisand produces symptoms similar to gonorrhea. It isoften callednongonococcal urethritisto distinguish it from gonorrhea.Symptoms•Pain during urination•Frequent urge to urinate•Watery dischargeMillions of cases occur each year.Tetracyclineis commonly used for treatment.Complications•Pelvic inflammatory disease•Sterilityin both males and females•Chlamydial ophthalmiain newborns2.3Mycoplasmal and Ureaplasmal UrethritisTwo other bacteria can cause urethral infections:
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Document Details

University
Texas A&M University
Course
Microbiology
Subject
Biology

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