Microbiology - Diseases of the Respiratory System - Quick Guides | Microbiology

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Study GuideMicrobiology–Diseases of the Respiratory System1.Fungal and Protozoal Diseases of the Respiratory SystemSome microorganisms—especiallyfungi and protozoa—can infect the lungs and cause seriousrespiratory diseases. These infections are often spread through the air by inhaling dust or spores andare more dangerous in people with weakened immune systems. Below are several importantrespiratory diseases explained in an easy-to-understand way.1.1HistoplasmosisHistoplasmosis is afungal diseasecaused by the yeastHistoplasma capsulatum.Once inside the body, the infection mainly affects the lungs and can closely resembletuberculosis,especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, the disease may spreadbeyond the lungs to other organs and become progressive.Most infections occur after exposure tobird or bat droppings, which release fungal spores into theair. When these spores are inhaled, they can enter the lungs.The antifungal drugamphotericin Bis commonly used to treat histoplasmosis, especially in seriouscases.1.2BlastomycosisBlastomycosis is caused byBlastomyces dermatitidis, ayeast-like fungus.This disease is found mainly in areas around theMississippi Valleyand is spread throughdust.After inhalation, the fungus infects the lungs and produces lesions that look similar to those seen intuberculosis.In some cases, the infection may spread from the lungs to other organs of the body. Treatmenttypically involves the antifungal drugamphotericin B.

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Study Guide1.3Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever)Coccidioidomycosis is caused by the fungusCoccidioides immitis, which lives in the soil of thesouthwestern United States.The disease is especially common in theSan Joaquin Valley of California, which is why it is oftencalledvalley fever. Infection occurs when fungal spores are stirred up in dust and inhaled.Common symptoms include:•Fever•Coughing•General tiredness and discomfortSome cases progress into more serious disease.Farm workersand others exposed to soil dust areat higher risk. Severe infections are treated withamphotericin B.1.4AspergillosisAspergillosis is caused by the fungusAspergillus fumigatus.In this disease, the fungus grows directly in lung tissue and forms adense ball of fungal filaments,called a mycelial mass. This mass can block airways and interfere with breathing.Because medication alone is often not enough,surgical removalof the fungal mass is frequentlyrequired.1.5Pneumocystis PneumoniaPneumocystis pneumonia is caused byPneumocystis carinii. Although it is traditionally classified as aprotozoan, biochemical evidence suggests it may actually be a fungus.This disease is most commonly seen inAIDS patientsand others with weakened immune systems.In healthy individuals, the organism is often present in the lungs but does not cause disease.When immunity is compromised:•The organisms multiply in the lungs•Severe lung consolidation occurs•Breathing becomes difficult and life-threatening

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Study GuideWithout treatment, Pneumocystis pneumonia can be fatal. The drugpentamidine isethionateiscommonly used for therapy.Approximatelyhalf of AIDS-related deathsare linked to Pneumocystis pneumonia.Pneumocystis cariniihas a complex life cycle that includesmature cysts and highly resistantforms, allowing it to persist in the body until immune defenses weaken.Key TakeawayFungal and protozoal respiratory diseases are often acquired by inhaling spores from theenvironment. While many infections remain mild, they can become severe or life-threatening inimmunocompromised individuals. Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungaltreatment are critical forsuccessful outcomes.2.Bacterial Diseases of the Respiratory SystemBacterial diseases of the respiratory system can affect either theupperorlowerrespiratory tract.•Theupper respiratory systemincludes the nose, pharynx, middle ear, and sinuses. Eventhough this area has strong defenses—such as mucus and ciliated hairs—infections arecommon because it is constantly exposed to the outside environment.•Thelower respiratory systemincludes the trachea, bronchi, and alveoli of the lungs.Bacteria grow easily here because the lungs providewarmth, moisture, and nutrients.2.1Strep ThroatStrep throat is caused by agroup A beta-hemolytic streptococcuscalledStreptococcus pyogenes.ThisGram-positive, encapsulated bacteriumproduces an enzyme calledstreptokinase, whichdissolves fibrin clots and allows the bacteria to spread to nearby tissues.Common signs include:•Sore throat•Swollen lymph nodes•Inflamed throat tissues•Pus on the tonsils

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