Topic 3: Infection And Response Flashcards
(24 cards)
communicable disease
A disease caused by a pathogen that can be passed from one organism to another.
Example: Influenza is a communicable disease.
pathogen
A harmful microorganism that causes communicable diseases.
Example: The flu virus is a pathogen.
bacteria
Reproduce inside the body and produce toxins that damage tissues and make us ill.
Example: Salmonella is a type of bacteria.
virus
Reproduce inside cells causing cell damage. Not a living thing.
Example: HIV is a virus.
fungi
A group of microorganisms that cause disease.
Example: Ringworm is caused by a fungi.
protist
A group of microorganisms that cause disease, with features similar to animals, plants and fungi.
Example: Malaria is caused by a protist.
vector
An organism that spreads infection by carrying pathogens from one host to another, e.g. mosquitos.
Example: Mosquitos are vectors for malaria.
white blood cell
Kills pathogens by engulfing them (in phagocytosis) or making antibodies (that binds specifically to the pathogen). Also make antitoxins (to neutralise toxins).
Example: White blood cells are part of the immune system.
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria (doesn’t work on viruses) e.g. penicillin from mould.
Example: Amoxicillin is an antibiotic.
painkiller
A drug that treats symptoms but does not kill pathogens. E.g aspirin from willow trees.
Example: Ibuprofen is a painkiller.
digitalis
A drug made from foxgloves that treats heart problems.
Example: Digitalis is used to treat heart failure.
vaccine
Contains dead pathogens to stimulate white blood cells to make specific antibodies to destroy the pathogen. Causes immunity.
Example: The polio vaccine prevents polio infection.
Efficacy
How well a drug works.
Example: The efficacy of the new medication was proven in the clinical trials.
Toxicity
How safe a drug is (does it have side effects).
Toxicity levels must be carefully monitored during drug development.
Dosage
How much of a drug is needed.
The correct dosage of the medication must be followed to ensure effectiveness.
Placebo
Does not contain the active drug being tested, used to compare the drug vs no drug.
Placebos are often used in clinical trials to determine the true effects of a drug.
Double blind
Neither the patient nor the doctor know who has the drug or placebo. Prevent biased results.
Double-blind studies are considered the gold standard in research.
Gonorrhoea
Bacterial disease, sexually transmitted. Causes yellow discharge from penis/vagina and pain when urinating.
Gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection.
Salmonella
Bacterial disease, transmitted by food prepared in unhygienic conditions. Causes vomiting, diarrhea, fever and cramps.
Salmonella poisoning is often linked to undercooked food.
Measles
Viral disease, spread by coughing and sneezing. Causes fever and a red rash, can be fatal.
Measles vaccination has been instrumental in reducing cases worldwide.
HIV
Viral disease, spread by sexual contact or exchange of bodily fluids. Causes weakened immune system (AIDS).
HIV is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing treatment.
Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV)
Viral disease, spread by contact. Causes mosaic pattern of discolouration, reducing photosynthesis which reduces growth.
TMV affects a wide range of plants, including tobacco and tomatoes.
Rose black spot
Fungal disease, spread by air/water. Causes black spots on leaves which turn yellow and drop early. Reduces photosynthesis which reduces growth.
Rose black spot can be controlled through proper plant hygiene.
Malaria
Protist disease, spread by mosquitos. Causes fever and can be fatal.
Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in many parts of the world.
