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Microbiology - Diseases of the Skin and Eyes

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    Study Guide Microbiology – Diseases of the Skin and Eyes 1. Fungal and Parasitic Skin Diseases The skin can be infected by fungi and parasites , leading to a variety of conditions. These infections often cause itching, redness, swelling, or lesions , and they spread in different ways. 1.1 Athlete’s Foot and Ringworm (Dermatomycoses) Athlete’s foot and ringworm are common fungal skin infections caused by fungi from the genera Trichophyton , Microsporum , and Epidermophyton . These fungi are called dermatophytes , and the diseases they cause are known as dermatomycoses . • Infection spreads through fragments of fungal hyphae • Fluid - filled skin lesions are common • Spread easily by contact with contaminated surfaces or skin Types • Athlete’s foot – tinea pedis • Ringworm of the body – tinea corporis • Ringworm of the groin – tinea cruris • Ringworm of the scalp – tinea capitis Treatment usually involves antifungal ointments , and in more serious cases, the prescription drug griseofulvin . 1.2 Sporotrichosis Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection caused by Sporothrix schenckii . • Enters the body through skin wounds • Commonly associated with rose or barberry thorns and sphagnum moss • Begins as a nodular mass at the site of entry

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    Study Guide • Spreads along lymphatic vessels • Causes swelling ( edema ) and hard, knotlike growths under the skin Treatment includes potassium iodide or amphotericin B . 1.3 Blastomycosis Blastomycosis is caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis . • Infection may spread from the lungs or through skin wounds • Produces pus - filled lesions and multiple abscesses • Can become systemic , affecting other organs Severe cases are treated with amphotericin B . 1.4 Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) Candidiasis is caused by the yeast Candida albicans , which is normally part of the body’s normal flora . Vaginal Yeast Infection • Occurs when the normal balance of microbes is disrupted • Often follows destruction of lactobacilli • Symptoms include: o Discomfort o Pruritus (itching) o Possible discharge Treatment includes antifungal drugs such as miconazole , ketoconazole , and itraconazole . Other Forms • Thrush – white patches and inflammation in the mouth and on the tongue • Onychosis – skin infection seen in people whose hands are frequently exposed to water

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    Study Guide Swimmer’s Itch Swimmer’s itch is caused by skin invasion of flatworm larvae from Schistosoma species. • The worms themselves are not pathogenic • They trigger an allergic reaction • Results in itching and skin irritation • Infection occurs while swimming in contaminated water 1.5 Dracunculiasis (Guinea Worm Disease) Dracunculiasis is caused by the roundworm Dracunculus medinensis . • Worms live within skin lesions • They eventually emerge through the skin • Common in tropical regions • Treatment involves careful removal of the worm through openings in the lesion Key Takeaway Fungal and parasitic skin diseases range from mild, treatable infections to more serious conditions. Early recognition, proper hygiene, and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent spread and complications. 2. Eye Diseases The eyes are delicate organs and can be affected by bacteria, viruses, and parasites . Eye infections often cause redness, itching, discharge, pain, or vision problems . Early treatment is important because some eye diseases can lead to permanent damage or blindness if not managed properly. 2.1 Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye) Conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva , the thin membrane that covers the inner eyelid and the white part of the eye.

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    Study Guide • Bacterial conjunctivitis is commonly called pinkeye • A frequent cause is the Gram - negative bacterium Haemophilus aegyptius • Symptoms include: o Red eyes o Itching o Discharge (exudate) • It is highly contagious • Spread occurs through droplets and direct contact Treatment usually involves antibiotic eye ointments or drops , often containing neomycin . 2.2 Trachoma Trachoma is a chronic bacterial eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis . • The organism is extremely small • It infects the cornea • Causes rough, sandy or pebble - like growths • These growths interfere with vision and can lead to blindness • Transmission usually occurs through direct contact Treatment includes tetracycline and other antibiotics. 2.3 Secondary Eye Infections in Newborns Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause eye infections in newborns during childbirth. Gonococcal Ophthalmia • Caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae • Can lead to severe corneal inflammation • May result in blindness if untreated

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