Appendix: Tables

Table 1.1: Units of Length Commonly Used in Microbiology
Metric Unit Meaning of Prefix Metric Equivalent
meter (m) 1 m = 100 cm
decimeter (dm) 1/10 1 dm = 0.1 m = 10−1 m
centimeter (cm) 1/100 1 cm = 0.01 m = 10−2 m
millimeter (mm) 1/1000 1 mm = 0.001 m = 10−3 m
micrometer (μm) 1/1,000,000 1 μm = 0.000001 m = 10−6 m
nanometer (nm) 1/1,000,000,000 1 nm = 0.000000001 m = 10−9 m

Table 3.1: Types of Symbiotic Relationships
Type Population A Population B
Mutualism Benefitted Benefitted
Amensalism Harmed Unaffected
Commensalism Benefitted Unaffected
Neutralism Unaffected Unaffected
Parasitism Benefitted Harmed

Table 4.1: The Eukaryote Supergroups and Some Examples
Supergroup Subgroups Distinguishing Features Examples Clinical Notes
Excavata Fornicata Form cysts
Pair of equal nuclei
No mitochondria
Often parasitic
Four free flagella
Giardia lamblia Giardiasis
Parabasalids No mitochondria
Four free flagella
One attached flagellum
No cysts
Parasitic or symbiotic
Basal bodies
Kinetoplastids
Trichomonas Trichomoniasis
Euglenozoans Photosynthetic or
heterotrophic
Flagella
Euglena N/a
Trypansoma African sleeping sickness,
Chagas disease
Leishmania Leishmaniasis
Chromalveolata Dinoflagellates Cellulose theca
Two dissimilar flagella
Gonyaulax Red tides
Alexandrium Paralytic shellfish poisoning
Pfiesteria Harmful algal blooms
Apicomplexans Intracellular parasite
Apical organelles
Plasmodium Malaria
Cryptosporidium Cryptosporidiosis
Theileria (Babesia) Babesiosis
Toxoplasma Toxoplasmosis
Ciliates Cilia Balantidium Balantidiasis
Paramecium N/a
Stentor N/a
Oomycetes/
peronosporomycetes
“Water molds”
Generally diploid
Cellulose cell walls
Phytophthora Diseases in crops
Rhizaria Foraminifera Amoeboid
Threadlike pseudopodia
Calcium carbonate shells
Astrolonche N/a
Radiolaria Amoeboid
Threadlike pseudopodia
Silica shells
Actinomma N/a
Cercozoa Amoeboid
Threadlike pseudopodia
Complex shells
Parasitic forms
Spongospora subterranea Powdery scab
(potato disease)
Plasmodiophora brassicae Cabbage clubroot
Archaeplastida Red algae Chlorophyll a
Phycoerythrin
Phycocyanin
Floridean starch
Agar in cell walls
Gelidium Source of agar
Gracilaria Source of agar
Chlorophytes Chlorophyll a
Chlorophyll b
Cellulose cell walls
Starch storage
Acetabularia N/a
Ulva N/a
Amoebozoa Slime molds Plasmodial and cellular forms Dictyostelium N/a
Entamoebas Trophozoites
Form cysts
Entamoeba Amoebiasis
Naegleria Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis
Acanthamoeba Keratitis, granulomatous amoebic encephalitis
Opisthokonta Fungi Chitin cell walls
Unicellular or multicellular
Often hyphae
Zygomycetes Zygomycosis
Ascomycetes Candidiasis
Basidiomycetes Cryptococcosis
Microsporidia Microsporidiosis
Animals Multicellular heterotrophs
No cell walls
Nematoda Trichinosis; hookworm and pinworm infections
Trematoda Schistosomiasis
Cestoda Tapeworm infections

Table 4.2: Select Groups of Fungi
Group Characteristics Examples Medically Important Species Organism
Ascomycota Septate hyphae
Ascus with ascospores in ascocarp
Conidiospores
Cup fungi
Edible mushrooms
Morels
Truffles
Neurospora
Penicillium
Aspergillus spp.
Trichophyton spp.
Microsporum spp.
Epidermophyton spp.
Blastomyces dermatitidis
Histoplasma capsulatum
Aspergillus niger
Basidiomycota Basidia produce basidiospores in a basidiocarp Club fungi
Rusts
Stinkhorns
Puffballs
Mushrooms
Cryptococcus neoformans
Amanita phalloides
Crytococcus neoformans Amanita phalloides
Microsporidia Lack mitochondria, perioxisomes, centrioles
Spores produce a polar tube
Enterocystozoan bieneusi Enterocystozoan bieneusi Microsporidia
Zygomycota Mainly saprophytes
Coenocytic hyphae
Haploid nuclei
Zygospores
Rhizopus stolonifera Mucor spp. Rhizopus sp.

Table 5.1: Characteristics of Viruses
Characteristics
Infectious, acellular pathogens
Obligate intracellular parasites with host and cell-type specificity
DNA or RNA genome (never both)
Genome is surrounded by a protein capsid and, in some cases, a phospholipid membrane studded with viral glycoproteins
Lack genes for many products needed for successful reproduction, requiring exploitation of host-cell genomes to reproduce

Table 8.1: Some Genetically Engineered Pharmaceutical Products and Applications
Recombinant DNA Product Application
Atrial natriuretic peptide Treatment of heart disease (e.g., congestive heart failure), kidney disease, high blood pressure
DNase Treatment of viscous lung secretions in cystic fibrosis
Erythropoietin Treatment of severe anemia with kidney damage
Factor VIII Treatment of hemophilia
Hepatitis B vaccine Prevention of hepatitis B infection
Human growth hormone Treatment of growth hormone deficiency, Turner’s syndrome, burns
Human insulin Treatment of diabetes
Interferons Treatment of multiple sclerosis, various cancers (e.g., melanoma), viral infections (e.g., Hepatitis B and C)
Tetracenomycins Used as antibiotics
Tissue plasminogen activator Treatment of pulmonary embolism in ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction

Table 9.1: Biosafety Levels. The CDC classifies infectious agents into four biosafety levels based on potential risk to laboratory personnel and the community. Each level requires a progressively greater level of precaution.
Biological Safety Levels Description Examples CDC Classification
BSL-4 Microbes are dangerous and exotic, posing a high risk of aerosol-transmitted infections, which are frequently fatal without treatment or vaccines. Few labs are at this level. Ebola and Marburg viruses Maximum
BSL-3 Microbes are indigenous or exotic and cause serious or potentially lethal diseases through respiratory transmission. Mycobacterium tuberculosis High
BSL-2 Microbes are typically indigenous and are associated with diseases of varying severity. They pose moderate risk to workers and the environment. Staphylococcus aureus Moderate
BSL-1 Microbes are not known to cause disease in healthy hosts and pose minimal risk to workers and the environment. Nonpathogenic strains of Escherichia coli Low

Table 9.2: Common Protocols for Control of Microbial Growth
Protocol Definition Common Application Common Agents
For Use on Fomites
Disinfection Reduces or destroys microbial load of an inanimate item through application of heat or antimicrobial chemicals Cleaning surfaces like laboratory benches, clinical surfaces, and bathrooms Chlorine bleach, phenols (e.g., Lysol), glutaraldehyde
Sanitization Reduces microbial load of an inanimate item to safe public health levels through application of heat or antimicrobial chemicals Commercial dishwashing of eating utensils, cleaning public restrooms Detergents containing phosphates (e.g., Finish), industrial-strength cleaners containing quaternary ammonium compounds
Sterilization Completely eliminates all vegetative cells, endospores, and viruses from an inanimate item Preparation of surgical equipment and of needles used for injection Pressurized steam (autoclave), chemicals, radiation
For Use on Living Tissue
Antisepsis Reduces microbial load on skin or tissue through application of an antimicrobial chemical Cleaning skin broken due to injury; cleaning skin before surgery Boric acid, isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine (betadine)
Degerming Reduces microbial load on skin or tissue through gentle to firm scrubbing and the use of mild chemicals Handwashing Soap, alcohol swab

Table 10.1: Common Antibacterial Drugs by Mode of Action
Mode of Action Target Drug Class
Inhibit cell wall biosynthesis Penicillin-binding proteins β-lactams: penicillins, cephalosporins, monobactams, carbapenems
Peptidoglycan subunits Glycopeptides
Peptidoglycan subunit transport Bacitracin
Inhibit biosynthesis of proteins 30S ribosomal subunit Aminoglycosides, tetracyclines
50S ribosomal subunit Macrolides, lincosamides, chloramphenicol, oxazolidinones
Disrupt membranes Lipopolysaccharide, inner and outer membranes Polymyxin B, colistin, daptomycin
Inhibit nucleic acid synthesis RNA Rifamycin
DNA Fluoroquinolones
Antimetabolites Folic acid synthesis enzyme Sulfonamides, trimethoprim
Mycolic acid synthesis enzyme Isonicotinic acid hydrazide
Mycobacterial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase inhibitor Mycobacterial ATP synthase Diarylquinoline

Table 10.2: Drugs that Inhibit Bacterial Cell Wall Synthesis
Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Natural or Semisynthetic Spectrum of Activity
Interact directly with PBPs and inhibit transpeptidase activity Penicillins Penicillin G, penicillin V Natural Narrow-spectrum against gram-positive and a few gram-negative bacteria
Ampicillin, amoxicillin Semisynthetic Narrow-spectrum against gram-positive bacteria but with increased gram-negative spectrum
Methicillin Semisynthetic Narrow-spectrum against gram-positive bacteria only, including strains producing penicillinase
Cephalosporins Cephalosporin C Natural Narrow-spectrum similar to penicillin but with increased gram-negative spectrum
First-generation cephalosporins Semisynthetic Narrow-spectrum similar to cephalosporin C
Second-generation cephalosporins Semisynthetic Narrow-spectrum but with increased gram-negative spectrum compared with first generation
Third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins Semisynthetic Broad-spectrum against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including some β-lactamase producers
Fifth-generation cephalosporins Semisynthetic Broad-spectrum against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including MRSA
Monobactams Aztreonam Semisynthetic Narrow-spectrum against gram-negative bacteria, including some β-lactamase producers
Carbapenems Imipenem, meropenem, doripenem Semisynthetic Broadest spectrum of the β-lactams against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including many β-lactamase producers
Large molecules that bind to the peptide chain of peptidoglycan subunits, blocking transglycosylation and transpeptidation Glycopeptides Vancomycin Natural Narrow spectrum against gram-positive bacteria only, including multidrug-resistant strains
Block transport of peptidoglycan subunits across cytoplasmic membrane Bacitracin Bacitracin Natural Broad-spectrum against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria

Table 10.3: Drugs That Inhibit Bacterial Protein Synthesis
Molecular Target Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Bacteriostatic or Bactericidal Spectrum of Activity
30S subunit Causes mismatches between codons and anticodons, leading to faulty proteins that insert into and disrupt cytoplasmic membrane Aminoglycosides Streptomycin, gentamicin, neomycin, kanamycin Bactericidal Broad spectrum
Blocks association of tRNAs with ribosome Tetracyclines Tetracycline, doxycycline, tigecycline Bacteriostatic Broad spectrum
50S subunit Blocks peptide bond formation between amino acids Macrolides Erythromycin, azithromycin, telithromycin Bacteriostatic Broad spectrum
Lincosamides Lincomycin, clindamycin Bacteriostatic Narrow spectrum
Not applicable Chloramphenicol Bacteriostatic Broad spectrum
Interferes with the formation of the initiation complex between 50S and 30S subunits and other factors Oxazolidinones Linezolid Bacteriostatic Broad spectrum

Table 10.4: Drugs That Inhibit Bacterial Membrane Function
Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Spectrum of Activity Clinical Use
Interacts with lipopolysaccharide in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, killing the cell through the eventual disruption of the outer membrane and cytoplasmic membrane Polymyxins Polymyxin B Narrow spectrum against gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains Topical preparations to prevent infections in wounds
Polymyxin E (colistin) Narrow spectrum against gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains Oral dosing to decontaminate bowels to prevent infections in immunocompromised patients or patients undergoing invasive surgery/procedures.
Intravenous dosing to treat serious systemic infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens
Inserts into the cytoplasmic membrane of gram-positive bacteria, disrupting the membrane and killing the cell Lipopeptide Daptomycin Narrow spectrum against gram-positive bacteria, including Complicated skin and skin-structure infections and bacteremia caused by gram-positive pathogens, including MRSA

Table 10.5: Drugs That Inhibit Bacterial Nucleic Acid Synthesis
Mechanisms of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Spectrum of Activity Clinical Use
Inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase activity and blocks transcription, killing the cell Rifamycin Rifampin Narrow spectrum with activity against gram-positive and limited numbers of gram-negative bacteria. Also active against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Combination therapy for treatment of tuberculosis
Inhibits the activity of DNA gyrase and blocks DNA replication, killing the cell Fluoroquinolones Ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, moxifloxacin Broad spectrum against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria Wide variety of skin and systemic infections

Table 10.6: Antimetabolite Drugs
Metabolic Pathway Target Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Spectrum of Activity
Folic acid synthesis Inhibits the enzyme involved in production of dihydrofolic acid Sulfonamides Sulfamethoxazole Broad spectrum against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
Sulfones Dapsone
Inhibits the enzyme involved in the production of tetrahydrofolic acid Not applicable Trimethoprim Broad spectrum against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria

Table 10.7: Common Antifungal Drugs
Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Clinical Uses
Inhibit ergosterol synthesis Imidazoles Miconazole, ketoconazole, clotrimazole Fungal skin infections and vaginal yeast infections
Triazoles Fluconazole Systemic yeast infections, oral thrush, and cryptococcal meningitis
Allylamines Terbinafine Dermatophytic skin infections (athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch), and infections of fingernails and toenails
Bind ergosterol in the cell membrane and create pores that disrupt the membrane Polyenes Nystatin Used topically for yeast infections of skin, mouth, and vagina; also used for fungal infections of the intestine
Amphotericin B Variety of systemic fungal infections
Inhibit cell wall synthesis Echinocandins Caspofungin Aspergillosis and systemic yeast infections
Not applicable Nikkomycin Z Coccidioidomycosis (Valley fever) and yeast infections
Inhibit microtubules and cell division Not applicable Griseofulvin Dermatophytic skin infections

Table 10.8: Common Antiprotozoan Drugs
Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Clinical Uses
Inhibit electron transport in mitochondria Naphthoquinone Atovaquone Malaria, babesiosis, and toxoplasmosis
Inhibit folic acid synthesis Not applicable Proguanil Combination therapy with atovaquone for malaria treatment and prevention
Sulfonamide Sulfadiazine Malaria and toxoplasmosis
Not applicable Pyrimethamine Combination therapy with sulfadoxine (sulfa drug) for malaria
Produces damaging reactive oxygen species Not applicable Artemisinin Combination therapy to treat malaria
Inhibit DNA synthesis Nitroimidazoles Metronidazole, tinidazole Infections caused by Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Trichomonas vaginalis
Not applicable Pentamidine African sleeping sickness and leishmaniasis
Inhibit heme detoxification Quinolines Chloroquine Malaria and infections with E. histolytica
Mepacrine, mefloquine Malaria

Table 10.9: Common Antihelminthic Drugs
Mechanism of Action Drug Class Specific Drugs Clinical Uses
Inhibit microtubule formation, reducing glucose uptake Benzimidazoles Mebendazole, albendazole Variety of helminth infections
Block neuronal transmission, causing paralysis and starvation Avermectins Ivermectin Roundworm diseases, including river blindness and strongyloidiasis, and treatment of parasitic insects
Inhibit ATP production Not applicable Niclosamide Intestinal tapeworm infections
Induce calcium influx Not applicable Praziquantel Schistosomiasis (blood flukes)
Inhibit RNA synthesis Thioxanthenones Lucanthone, hycanthone, oxamniquine Schistosomiasis (blood flukes)

Table 10.10: Common Antiviral Drugs
Mechanism of Action Drug Clinical Uses
Nucleoside analog inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis Acyclovir Herpes virus infections
Azidothymidine/zidovudine (AZT) HIV infections
Ribavirin Hepatitis C virus and respiratory syncytial virus infections
Vidarabine Herpes virus infections
Sofosbuvir Hepatitis C virus infections
Non-nucleoside noncompetitive inhibition Etravirine HIV infections
Inhibit escape of virus from endosomes Amantadine, rimantadine Infections with influenza virus
Inhibit neuraminidase Oseltamivir, zanamivir, peramivir Infections with influenza virus
Inhibit viral uncoating Pleconaril Serious enterovirus infections
Inhibition of protease Ritonavir HIV infections
Simeprevir Hepatitis C virus infections
Inhibition of integrase Raltegravir HIV infections
Inhibition of membrane fusion Enfuvirtide HIV infections

Table 11.:1 Nomenclature of Symptoms
Affix Meaning Example
cyto- cell cytopenia: reduction in the number of blood cells
hepat- of the liver hepatitis: inflammation of the liver
-pathy disease neuropathy: a disease affecting nerves
-emia of the blood bacteremia: presence of bacteria in blood
-itis inflammation colitis: inflammation of the colon
-lysis destruction hemolysis: destruction of red blood cells
-oma tumor lymphoma: cancer of the lymphatic system
-osis diseased or abnormal condition leukocytosis: abnormally high number of white blood cells
-derma of the skin keratoderma: a thickening of the skin

Table 11.2: Comparison of Endotoxin and Exotoxins Produced by Bacteria
Characteristic Endotoxin Exotoxin
Source Gram-negative bacteria Gram-positive (primarily) and gram-negative bacteria
Composition Lipid A component of lipopolysaccharide Protein
Effect on host General systemic symptoms of inflammation and fever Specific damage to cells dependent upon receptor-mediated targeting of cells and specific mechanisms of action
Heat stability Heat stable Most are heat labile, but some are heat stable
LD50 High Low

Table 12.1: Incidence of Four Notifiable Diseases in the United States, Week Ending January 2, 2016
Disease Current Week (Jan 2, 2016) Median of Previous 52 Weeks Maximum of Previous 52 Weeks Cumulative Cases 2015
Campylobacteriosis 406 869 1,385 46,618
Chlamydia trachomatis infection 11,024 28,562 31,089 1,425,303
Giardiasis 115 230 335 11,870
Gonorrhea 3,207 7,155 8,283 369,926

Table 12.2: Some Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases
Disease Pathogen Year Discovered Affected Regions Transmission
AIDS HIV 1981 Worldwide Contact with infected body fluids
Chikungunya fever Chikungunya virus 1952 Africa, Asia, India; spreading to Europe and the Americas Mosquito-borne
Ebola virus disease Ebola virus 1976 Central and Western Africa Contact with infected body fluids
H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) H1N1 virus 2009 Worldwide Droplet transmission
Lyme disease Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium 1981 Northern hemisphere From mammal reservoirs to humans by tick vectors
West Nile virus disease West Nile virus 1937 Africa, Australia, Canada to Venezuela, Europe, Middle East, Western Asia Mosquito-borne

Table 13.1: Defenses Overview
Types of Defenses
Physical defenses Physical barriers
Mechanical defenses
Microbiome
Chemical defenses Chemicals and enzymes in body fluids
Antimicrobial peptides
Plasma protein mediators
Cytokines
Inflammation-eliciting mediators
Cellular defenses Granulocytes
Agranulocytes

Table 13.2: Physical Defenses of Nonspecific Innate Immunity
Defense Examples Function
Cellular barriers Skin, mucous membranes, endothelial cells Deny entry to pathogens
Mechanical defenses Shedding of skin cells, mucociliary sweeping, peristalsis, flushing action of urine and tears Remove pathogens from potential sites of infection
Microbiome Resident bacteria of the skin, upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and genitourinary tract Compete with pathogens for cellular binding sites and nutrients

Table 13.3: Chemical Defenses of Nonspecific Innate Immunity
Defense Examples Function
Chemicals and enzymes in body fluids Sebum from sebaceous glands Provides oil barrier protecting hair follicle pores from pathogens
Oleic acid from sebum and skin microbiota Lowers pH to inhibit pathogens
Lysozyme in secretions Kills bacteria by attacking cell wall
Acid in stomach, urine, and vagina Inhibits or kills bacteria
Digestive enzymes and bile Kill bacteria
Lactoferrin and transferrin Bind and sequester iron, inhibiting bacterial growth
Surfactant in lungs Kills bacteria
Antimicrobial peptides Defensins, bacteriocins, dermicidin, cathelicidin, histatins Kill bacteria by attacking membranes or interfering with cell functions
Plasma protein mediators Acute-phase proteins (C-reactive protein, serum amyloid A, ferritin, fibrinogen, transferrin, and mannose-binding lectin) Inhibit the growth of bacteria and assist in the trapping and killing of bacteria
Complements C3b and C4b Opsonization of pathogens to aid phagocytosis
Complement C5a Chemoattractant for phagocytes
Complements C3a and C5a Proinflammatory anaphylatoxins
Cytokines Interleukins Stimulate and modulate most functions of immune system
Chemokines Recruit white blood cells to infected area
Interferons Alert cells to viral infection, induce apoptosis of virus-infected cells, induce antiviral defenses in infected and nearby uninfected cells, stimulate immune cells to attack virus-infected cells
Inflammation-eliciting mediators Histamine Promotes vasodilation, bronchoconstriction, smooth muscle contraction, increased secretion and mucus production
Leukotrienes Promote inflammation; stronger and longer lasting than histamine
Prostaglandins Promote inflammation and fever
Bradykinin Increases vasodilation and vascular permeability leading to edema

Table 14.1: The Five Immunoglobulin (Ig) Classes
Properties IgG monomer IgM pentamer Secretory IgA dimer IgD monomer IgE monomer
Heavy chains γ μ α δ ε
Number of antigen-binding sites 2 10 4 2 2
Molecular weight (Daltons) 150,000 900,000 385,000 180,000 200,000
Percentage of total antibody in serum 80% 6% 13% (monomer) <1% <1%
Crosses placenta yes no no no no
Fixes complement yes yes no no no
Fc binds to phagocytes mast cells and basophils
Function Neutralization, agglutination, complement activation, opsonization, and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Neutralization, agglutination, and complement activation. The monomer form serves as the B-cell receptor. Neutralization and trapping of pathogens in mucus. B-cell receptor. Activation of basophils and mast cells against parasites and allergens.

Table 14.2: Classes of T Cells
Class Surface CD Molecules Activation Functions
Helper T cells CD4 APCs presenting antigens associated with MHC II Orchestrate humoral and cellular immunity
Involved in the activation of macrophages and NK cells
Regulatory T cells CD4 APCs presenting antigens associated with MHC II Involved in peripheral tolerance and prevention of autoimmune responses
Cytotoxic T cells CD8 APCs or infected nucleated cells presenting antigens associated with MHC I Destroy cells infected with intracellular pathogens

Table 14.3: Subtypes of Helper T Cells
Subtype Functions
TH1 cells Stimulate cytotoxic T cells and produce memory cytotoxic T cells
Stimulate macrophages and neutrophils (PMNs) for more effective intracellular killing of pathogens
Stimulate NK cells to kill more effectively
TH2 cells Stimulate B cell activation and differentiation into plasma cells and memory B cells
Direct antibody class switching in B cells
TH17 cells Stimulate immunity to specific infections such as chronic mucocutaneous infections
Memory helper T cells “Remember” a specific pathogen and mount a strong, rapid secondary response upon re-exposure

Table 14.4: Mechanisms of Acquisition of Immunity
Natural acquired Artificial acquired
Passive Immunity acquired from antibodies passed in breast milk or through placenta Immunity gained through antibodies harvested from another person or an animal
Active Immunity gained through illness and recovery Immunity acquired through a vaccine

Table 14.5: Classes of Vaccines
Class Description Advantages Disadvantages Examples
Live attenuated Weakened strain of whole pathogen Cellular and humoral immunity Difficult to store and transport Chickenpox, German measles, measles, mumps, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, yellow fever
Long-lasting immunity Risk of infection in immunocompromised patients
Transmission to contacts Risk of reversion
Inactivated Whole pathogen killed or inactivated with heat, chemicals, or radiation Ease of storage and transport Weaker immunity (humoral only) Cholera, hepatitis A, influenza, plague, rabies
No risk of severe active infection Higher doses and more boosters required
Subunit Immunogenic antigens Lower risk of side effects Limited longevity Anthrax, hepatitis B, influenza, meningitis, papillomavirus, pneumococcal pneumonia, whooping cough
Multiple doses required
No protection against antigenic variation
Toxoid Inactivated bacterial toxin Humoral immunity to neutralize toxin Does not prevent infection Botulism, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus
Conjugate Capsule polysaccharide conjugated to protein T-dependent response to capsule Costly to produce Meningitis (Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitides)
No protection against antigenic variation
Better response in young children May interfere with other vaccines

Table 15.1: Selected Preformed Components of Mast Cell Granules
Granule Component Activity
Heparin Stimulates the generation of bradykinin, which causes increased vascular permeability, vasodilation, bronchiole constriction, and increased mucus secretion
Histamine Causes smooth-muscle contraction, increases vascular permeability, increases mucus and tear formation
Serotonin Increases vascular permeability, causes vasodilation and smooth-muscle contraction

Table 15.2: Selected Newly Formed Chemical Mediators of Inflammation and Allergic Response
Chemical Mediator Activity
Leukotriene Causes smooth-muscle contraction and mucus secretion, increases vascular permeability
Prostaglandin Causes smooth-muscle contraction and vasodilation
TNF-α (cytokine) Causes inflammation and stimulates cytokine production by other cell types

Table 15.3: Type I Hypersensitivities
Common Name Cause Signs and Symptoms
Allergy-induced asthma Inhalation of allergens Constriction of bronchi, labored breathing, coughing, chills, body aches
Anaphylaxis Systemic reaction to allergens Hives, itching, swelling of tongue and throat, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, shock
Hay fever Inhalation of mold or pollen Runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing
Hives (urticaria) Food or drug allergens, insect stings Raised, bumpy skin rash with itching; bumps may converge into large raised areas

Table 15.4a: Common Type II Hypersensitivities
Common Name Cause Signs and Symptoms
Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) IgG from mother crosses the placenta, targeting the fetus’ RBCs for destruction Anemia, edema, enlarged liver or spleen, hydrops (fluid in body cavity), leading to death of newborn in severe cases
Hemolytic transfusion reactions (HTR) IgG and IgM bind to antigens on transfused RBCs, targeting donor RBCs for destruction Fever, jaundice, hypotension, disseminated intravascular coagulation, possibly leading to kidney failure and death

Table 15.4b: Blood Type
Red blood cell type A B AB O
Isohemagglutinins Anti-B Anti-A Neither Anti-A nor Anti-B Anti-A and Anti-B
Antigens on red blood cell A antigen B antigen A and B antigens Neither A nor B antigens

Table 15.5: Common Type IV Hypersensitivities
Subcategory Antigen Effector Mechanism Examples
1 Soluble antigen Activated macrophages damage tissue and promote inflammatory response Contact dermatitis (e.g., exposure to latex) and delayed-type hypersensitivity (e.g., tuberculin reaction)
2 Soluble antigen Eosinophil recruitment and activation release cytokines and pro-inflammatory chemicals Chronic asthma and chronic allergic rhinitis
3 Cell-associated antigen CTL-mediated cytotoxicity Contact dermatitis (e.g., contact with poison ivy) and tissue-transplant rejection

Table 15.6: Hypersensitivity Types and Their Mechanisms. Notice that types I–III are B- cell/antibody-mediated hypersensitivities, whereas type IV hypersensitivity is exclusively a T-cell phenomenon.
Type I Type II Type III Type IV
Immune reactant IgE IgG or IgM IgG and IgM T cells
Antigen form Soluble antigen Cell-bound antigen Soluble antigen Soluble or cell-bound antigen
Mechanism of activation Allergen-specific IgE antibodies bind to mast cells via their Fc receptor. When the specific allergen binds to the IgE, cross-linking of IgE induces degranulation of mast cells. IgG or IgM antibody binds to cellular antigen, leading to complement activation and cell lysis. IgG can also mediate ADCC with cytotoxic T cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. Antigen-antibody complexes are deposited in tissues. Complement activation provides inflammatory mediators and recruits neutrophils. Enzymes released from neutrophils damage tissue. TH1 cells secrete cytokines, which activate macrophages and cytotoxic T cells.
Examples of hypersensitivity reactions Local and systemic anaphylaxis, seasonal hay fever, food allergies, and drug allergies Red blood cell destruction after transfusion with mismatched blood types or during hemolytic disease of the newborn. Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus Contact dermatitis, type I diabetes mellitus, and multiple sclerosis

Table 15.7: Select Autoimmune Diseases
Disease Cause Signs and Symptoms
Addison disease Destruction of adrenal gland cells by cytotoxic T cells Weakness, nausea, hypotension, fatigue; adrenal crisis with severe pain in abdomen, lower back, and legs; circulatory system collapse, kidney failure
Celiac disease Antibodies to gluten become autoantibodies that target cells of the small intestine Severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, anemia, malnutrition
Diabetes mellitus (type I) Cytotoxic T-cell destruction of the insulin-producing β cells of the pancreas Hyperglycemia, extreme increase in thirst and urination, weight loss, extreme fatigue
Multiple sclerosis (MS) Cytotoxic T-cell destruction of the myelin sheath surrounding nerve axons in the central nervous system Visual disturbances, muscle weakness, impaired coordination and balance, numbness, prickling or “pins and needles” sensations, impaired cognitive function and memory
Myasthenia gravis Autoantibodies directed against acetylcholine receptors within the neuromuscular junction Extreme muscle weakness eventually leading to fatal respiratory arrest
Psoriasis Cytokine activation of keratinocytes causes rapid and excessive epidermal cell turnover Itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales; commonly affects elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, feet
Rheumatoid arthritis Autoantibodies, immune complexes, complement activation, phagocytes, and T cells damage membranes and bone in joints Joint inflammation, pain and disfigurement, chronic systemic inflammation
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Autoantibodies directed against nuclear and cytoplasmic molecules form immune complexes that deposit in tissues. Phagocytic cells and complement activation cause tissue damage and inflammation Fatigue, fever, joint pain and swelling, hair loss, anemia, clotting, a sunlight-sensitive “butterfly” rash, skin lesions, photosensitivity, decreased kidney function, memory loss, confusion, depression

Table 16.1: Some Medical Terms Associated with Skin Lesions and Rashes
Term Definition
abscess localized collection of pus
bulla (pl., bullae) fluid-filled blister no more than 5 mm in diameter
carbuncle deep, pus-filled abscess generally formed from multiple furuncles
crust dried fluids from a lesion on the surface of the skin
cyst encapsulated sac filled with fluid, semi-solid matter, or gas, typically located just below the upper layers of skin
folliculitis a localized rash due to inflammation of hair follicles
furuncle (boil) pus-filled abscess due to infection of a hair follicle
macules smooth spots of discoloration on the skin
papules small raised bumps on the skin
pseudocyst lesion that resembles a cyst but with a less defined boundary
purulent pus-producing; suppurative
pustules fluid- or pus-filled bumps on the skin
pyoderma any suppurative (pus-producing) infection of the skin
suppurative producing pus; purulent
ulcer break in the skin; open sore
vesicle small, fluid-filled lesion
wheal swollen, inflamed skin that itches or burns, such as from an insect bite

Table 16.2: Bacterial Infections of the Skin
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Antimicrobial Drugs
Acne Propionibacterium acnes Comedones (whiteheads, blackheads); papules, pustules, nodules, or pseudocysts Not transmissible; clogged pores become infected by normal skin microbiota (P. acnes) Erythromycin, clindamycin
Anthrax (cutaneous) Bacillus anthracis Eschar at site of infection; may lead to septicemia and can be fatal Entry of B. anthracis endospores through cut or abrasion Penicillin, erythromycin, or tetracycline
Cellulitis Streptococcus pyogenes Localized inflammation of dermis and hypodermis; skin red, warm, and painful to the touch Entry of S. pyogenes through cut or abrasion Oral or intravenous antibiotics (e.g., penicillin)
Erysipelas S. pyogenes Inflamed, swollen patch of skin, often on face; may be suppurative Entry of S. pyogenes through cut or abrasion Oral or intravenous antibiotics (e.g., penicillin)
Erythema nodosum S. pyogenes Small red nodules, often on shins Associated with other streptococcal infection None or anti-inflammatory drugs for severe cases
Impetigo Staphylococcus aureus, S. pyogenes Vesicles, pustules, and sometimes bullae around nose and mouth Highly contagious, especially via contact Topical or oral antibiotics
Necrotizing fasciitis S. pyogenes, Klebsiella, Clostridium, others Infection of fascia and rapidly spreading tissue death; can lead to septic shock and death Entry of bacteria through cut or abrasion Intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) S. aureus Erythema and severe peeling of skin Infection of skin and mucous membranes, especially in children Intravenous antibiotics, fluid therapy

Table 16.3: Bacterial Infections of the Eyes
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Antimicrobial Drugs
Acute bacterial conjunctivitis Haemophilus influenzae Inflammation of conjunctiva with purulent discharge Exposure to secretions from infected individuals Broad-spectrum topical antibiotics

Table 16.4: Viral Infections of the Skin and Eyes
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Antimicrobial Drugs
Oral herpes Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) May cause initial systemic symptoms; cold sores Highly contagious via direct contact with infected individuals Acyclovir, penciclovir, famciclovir, valacyclovir
Papillomas Human papillomavirus (HPV) Common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, filiform warts, and others Contact with infected individuals Topical salicylic acid, cantharidin

Table 16.5: Some Common Tineas and Location on the Body
Type of Tinea Location on the Body
Tinea corporis (ringworm) Body
Tinea capitis (ringworm) Scalp
Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) Feet
Tinea barbae (barber’s itch) Beard
Tinea cruris (jock itch) Groin
Tinea unguium (onychomycosis) Toenails, fingernails

Table 16.6: Mycoses of the Skin
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Antimicrobial Drugs
Tineas Trichophyton spp., Epidermophyton spp., Microsporum spp. Itchy, ring-like lesions (ringworm) at sites of infection Contact with dermatophytic fungi, especially in warm, moist environments conducive to fungal growth Terbinafine, miconazole, clotrimazole, griseofulvin

Table 16.7: Parasitic Skin and Eye Infections
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Antimicrobial Drugs
Loiasis Loa loa Recurring fever and localized Calabar swelling, itching, and skin or eye pain during subcutaneous migration of worms Larvae transmitted between humans by deerfly vector Diethylcarbamazine, albendazole

Table 17.1: Respiratory Pathogens and Their Vaccines
Disease Pathogen Available Vaccine(s)[1]
Chickenpox/shingles Varicella-zoster virus Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine
Common cold Rhinovirus None
Diphtheria Corynebacterium diphtheriae DtaP, Tdap, DT, Td, DTP
Epiglottitis, otitis media Haemophilus influenzae Hib
Influenza Influenza viruses Inactivated, FluMist
Measles Measles virus MMR
Pertussis Bordetella pertussis DTaP, Tdap
Pneumonia Streptococcus pneumoniae Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)
Rubella (German measles) Rubella virus MMR
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) None
Tuberculosis Mycobacterium tuberculosis BCG

Table 17.2: Bacterial Infections of the Respiratory Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs Vaccine
Acute otitis media (AOM) Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, others Earache, possible effusion; may cause fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea Often a secondary infection; bacteria from respiratory tract become trapped in eustachian tube, cause infection None Cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones None
Pertussis (whooping cough) Bordetella pertussis Severe coughing with “whoop” sound; chronic cough lasting several months; can be fatal in infants Inhalation of respiratory droplets from infected person Direct culture of throat swab, PCR, ELISA Macrolides DTaP, Tdap
Streptococcal pharyngitis, scarlet fever Streptococcus pyogenes Fever, sore throat, inflammation of pharynx and tonsils, petechiae, swollen lymph nodes; skin rash (scarlet fever), strawberry tongue Direct contact, inhalation of respiratory droplets or aerosols from infected person Direct culture of throat swab, rapid enzyme immunoassay β-lactams None
Tuberculosis Mycobacterium tuberculosis Formation of tubercles in lungs; rupture of tubercles, leading to chronic, bloody cough; healed tubercles (Ghon complexes) visible in radiographs; can be fatal Inhalation of respiratory droplets or aerosols from infected person Mantoux tuberculin skin test with chest radiograph to identify Ghon complexes Isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, pyrazinamide BCG

Table 17.3: Bacterial Causes of Pneumonia
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs Vaccine
Haemophilus pneumonia Haemophilus influenzae Cough, fever or low body temperature, chills, chest pain, headache, fatigue Inhalation of respiratory droplets or aerosols from infected person or asymptomatic carrier Culture on chocolate agar, serotyping of blood or cerebrospinal fluid samples Cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones Hib
Mycoplasma pneumonia (walking pneumonia) Mycoplasma pneumoniae Low fever, persistent cough Inhalation of respiratory droplets or aerosols from infected person Culture with penicillin, thallium acetate Macrolides None
Pneumococcal pneumonia Streptococcus pneumoniae Productive cough, bloody sputum, fever, chills, chest pain, respiratory distress Direct contact with respiratory secretions Gram stain, blood agar culture with optichin and sodium deoxycholate, quellung reaction β-lactams, macrolides, fluoroquinolones Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)

Table 17.4: Comparing the Common Cold and Influenza
Sign/Symptom Common Cold Influenza
Fever Low (37.2 °C [99 °F]) High (39 °C [102.2 °F])
Headache Common Common
Aches and pains Mild Severe
Fatigue Slight Severe
Nasal congestion Common Rare
Sneezing Common Rare

Table 17.5: Different Types of Influenza
Influenza A virus Influenza B virus Influenza C virus
Severity Severe Moderate Mild
Animal reservoir Yes No No
Genome segments 8 8 7
Population spread Epidemic and pandemic Epidemic Sporadic
Antigenic variation Shift/drift Drift Drift

Table 17.6: Viral Infections of the Respiratory Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Vaccine
Chickenpox (varicella) Varicella-zoster virus In children, fever, chills, pustular rash of lesions that burst and form crusty scabs; in adults, more severe symptoms and complications (e.g., pneumonia) Highly contagious via contact with aerosols, particles, or droplets from infected individual’s blisters or respiratory secretions Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
Common cold Rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, coronaviruses, others Runny nose, congestion, sore throat, sneezing, headaches and muscle aches; may lead to otitis media, pharyngitis, laryngitis Highly contagious via contact with respiratory secretions or inhalation of droplets or aerosols None
Influenza Influenza viruses A, B, C Fever, chills, headaches, body aches, fatigue; may lead to pneumonia or complications such as Reye syndrome. Highly virulent strains may cause lethal complications Highly contagious between humans via contact with respiratory secretions or inhalation of droplets or aerosols. Influenza A virus can be transmitted from animal reservoirs. Vaccines developed yearly against most prevalent strains
Measles Measles virus (MeV) High fever, conjunctivitis, sore throat, macular rash becoming confluent, Koplik’s spots on oral mucosa; in severe cases, can lead to fatal pneumonia or encephalitis, especially in children Highly contagious via contact with respiratory secretions, skin rash, or eye secretions of infected individual MMR
Shingles Varicella-zoster virus Painful lesions on face or trunk lasting several weeks; may cause postherpetic neuralgia (chronic pain) or spread to organs in severe cases Nontransmissible; occurs when dormant virus is reactivated, generally many years after initial chicken-pox infection Herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine

Table 18.1: Bacterial Infections of the Reproductive Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) Gardnerella vaginalis, Bacteroides spp., Fusobacterium spp., others Often asymptomatic; vaginal discharge, burning, odor, or itching Opportunistic infection caused by imbalance of normal vaginal microbiota Vaginal smear Clindamycin, metronidazole, tinidazole
Chlamydia Chlamydia trachomatis Often asymptomatic; in men, urethritis, epididymitis, orchitis; in women, urethritis, vaginal discharge or bleeding, pelvic inflammatory disease, salpingitis, increased risk of cervical cancer Sexual contact or from mother to neonate during birth NAAT, urine sample, vaginal swab, culture Azithromycin, doxycycline, erythromycin, ofloxacin, or levofloxacin
Gonorrhea Neisseria gonorrhoeae Urethritis, dysuria, penile or vaginal discharge, rectal pain and bleeding; in females, pelvic pain, intermenstrual bleeding, pelvic inflammatory disease, salpingitis, increased risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy; in disseminated infections, arthritis, endocarditis, meningitis Sexual contact Urine sample or culture, NAAT, PCR, ELISA Ceftriaxone, azithromycin

Table 18.2: Viral Infections of the Reproductive Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs/Vaccines
Genital herpes Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2) Recurring outbreaks of skin vesicles on genitalia and elsewhere; asymptomatic in many individuals Sexual contact or contact with open lesions Viral culture, PCR, ELISA Acyclovir, famciclovir, valacyclovir
Human papillomas Human papillomavirus (HPV) (various strains) Genital warts or warts in other areas Direct contact, including sexual Pap smear Imiquimod, podofilox, sinecatechins

Table 18.3: Fungal and Protozoan Infections of the Reproductive Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Trichomoniasis Trichomonas vaginalis Urethritis, vaginal or penile discharge; redness or soreness of female genitalia Sexual contact Wet mounts, NAAT of urine or vaginal samples; OSOM Trichomonas Rapid Test, Affirm VPII Microbial Identification Test Metronidazole, tinidazole
Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) Candida spp., especially C. albicans Dysuria; vaginal burning, itching, discharge Transmissible by sexual contact, but typically only causes opportunistic infections after immunosuppression or disruption of vaginal microbiota Culture, Affirm VPII Microbial Identification Test Fluconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole, tioconazole, nystatin

Table 19.1: Oral Infections
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Dental caries Streptococcus mutans Discoloration, softening, cavities in teeth Non-transmissible; caused by bacteria of the normal oral microbiota Visual examinations,
X-rays
Oral antiseptics (e.g., Listerine)

Table 19.2: Some Pathogenic Groups of E. coli
Group Virulence Factors and Genes Signs and Symptoms Diagnostic Tests Treatment
Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) Heat stable enterotoxin similar to cholera toxin Relatively mild, watery diarrhea Culturing, PCR Self-limiting; if needed, fluoroquinolones, doxycycline, rifaximin, TMP/SMZ; antibiotic resistance is a problem
Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC) Inv (invasive plasmid) genes Relatively mild, watery diarrhea; dysentery or inflammatory colitis may occur Culturing, PCR; testing for inv gene; additional assays to distinguish from Shigella Supportive therapy only; antibiotics not recommended
Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) Locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) pathogenicity island Severe fever, vomiting, nonbloody diarrhea, dehydration; potentially fatal Culturing, PCR; detection of LEE lacking Shiga-like toxin genes Self-limiting; if needed, fluoroquinolones, doxycycline, rifaximin, TMP/SMZ; antibiotic resistance is a problem
Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) Verotoxin May be mild or very severe; bloody diarrhea; may result in HUS Culturing; plate on MacConkey agar with sorbitol agar as it does not ferment sorbitol; PCR detection of LEE containing Shiga-like toxin genes Antibiotics are not recommended due to the risk of HUS

Table 19.3: Bacterial Infections of the GI Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Cholera Vibrio cholerae Severe diarrhea and fluid loss, potentially leading to shock, renal failure, and death Ingestion of contaminated water or food Culture on selective medium (TCBS agar); distinguished as oxidase positive with fermentative metabolisms Generally none; tetracyclines, azithromycin, others if necessary
Clostridium difficile infection Clostridium difficile Pseudomembranous colitis, watery diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dehydration; in severe cases, perforation of the colon, septicemia, shock, and death Overgrowth of C. difficile in the normal microbiota due to antibiotic use; hospital-acquired infections in immunocompromised patients Detection of toxin in stool, nucleic acid amplification tests (e.g., PCR) Discontinuation of previous antibiotic treatment; metronidazole or vancomycin
E. coli infection ETEC, EPEC, EIEC, EHEC Watery diarrhea, dysentery, cramps, malaise, fever, chills, dehydration; in EHEC, possible severe complications such as hematolytic uremic syndrome Ingestion of contaminated food or water Tissue culture, immunochemical assays, PCR, gene probes Not recommended for EIEC and EHEC; fluoroquinolones, doxycycline, rifaximin, and TMP/SMZ possible for ETEC and EPEC
Peptic ulcers Helicobacter pylori Nausea, bloating, burping, lack of appetite, weight loss, perforation of stomach, blood in stools Normal flora, can also be acquired via saliva; fecal-oral route via contaminated food and water Breath test, detection of antibodies in blood, detection of bacteria in stool sample or stomach biopsy Amoxicillin, clarithromycin metronidazole, tetracycline, lansoprazole; antacids may also be given in combination with antibiotics
Staphylococcal food poisoning Staphylococcus aureus Rapid-onset nausea, diarrhea, vomiting lasting 24–48 hours; possible dehydration and change in blood pressure and heart rate Ingestion of raw or undercooked meat or dairy products contaminated with staphylococcal enterotoxins ELISA to detect enterotoxins in uneaten food, stool, or vomitus None

Table 19.4: Viral Causes of Gastroenteritis
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Vaccine
Norovirus gastroenteritis Noroviruses Fever, diarrhea, projectile vomiting, dehydration; generally self-limiting within two days Highly contagious via direct contact or contact with contaminated food or fomites Rapid enzyme immunoassay confirmed with RT-qPCR None
Rotavirus gastroenteritis Rotaviruses Fever, diarrhea, vomiting, severe dehydration; recurring infections can lead to malnutrition and death Fecal-oral route; children and elderly most susceptible Enzyme immunoassay of stool sample, latex agglutination assays, RT-PCR Preventive vaccine recommended for infants

Table 19.5: Protozoan Infections of the GI Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Giardiasis Giardia lamblia Diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, gas, greasy stool, dehydration if severe; sometimes malabsorption syndrome Contact with infected individual or contaminated fomites; ingestion of contaminated food or water Stool O&P exam; ELISA, direct fluorescence antibody assays Metronidazole, tinidazole

Table 19.6: Helminthic Infections of the GI Tract
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Ascariasis Ascaris lumbricoides Eggs in fecally contaminated food or water Microscopic examination of the stool, imaging Shortness of breath, cough, nausea, diarrhea, blood in stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue Self-limiting within 1 to 2 years; albendazole and mebendazole if needed
Enterobiasis (pinworm) Enterobius vermicularis Fecal–oral route Observation of eggs or worms from anal area; examination of samples under fingernails Itching around the anus, abdominal pain, insomnia, irritation of female genital tract Mebendazole, albendazole, pyrantel pamoate
Strongyloidiasis Strongyloides stercoralis Often asymptomatic; cough (sometimes bloody), skin rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea; in immunosuppressed patients, may become disseminated, causing serious and potentially fatal complications Soil-dwelling larvae penetrate the skin, usually bare feet Microscopic observation of larvae in stool; serological testing for antigens Ivermectin, albendazole
Tapeworms (taeniasis) Taenia solium, T. saginata, T. asiatica, Diphyllobothrium latum Asymptomatic or mild GI distress; cysts in muscle, eye, or brain (cysticercosis); brain cysts can cause headaches, seizures, or death Ingestion of raw or undercooked pork or beef from infected animal Observation of worm segments or microscopic eggs in stool; CT or MRI to detect cysts Praziquantel, niclosamide
Trichinosis Trichinella spiralis, other Trichinella spp. Diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, cough, chills, light sensitivity, muscle pain, fever, conjunctivitis; in severe cases may affect motor coordination, breathing, heart function Ingestion of raw or undercooked pork or other meat of infected animal Observation of cysts in muscle biopsy, enzyme immunoassay Albendazole, mebendazole
Whipworm (trichuriasis) Trichuris trichiura Abdominal pain, anemia, diarrhea (possibly bloody), rectal prolapse Ingestion of eggs in fecally contaminated food Microscopic observation of eggs in stool Albendazole, mebendazole, ivermectin

Table 20.1: Bacterial Infections of the Circulatory and Lymphatic Systems.
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Lyme disease Borrelia burgdorferi Early localized: bull’s eye rash, malaise, headache, fever, muscle stiffness; early disseminated: stiff neck, facial paralysis, arthritis, carditis; late-stage: arthritis, meningitis, possibly fatal From deer, rodent, bird reservoirs via tick vector IFA, serology, and ELISA Amoxicillin, doxycycline, penicillin G, chloramphenicol, ceftriaxone
Plague Yersinia pestis Bubonic: buboes, fever, internal hemorrhaging; septicemic: fever, abdominal pain, shock, DIC, necrosis in extremities; pneumonic: acute pneumonia, respiratory failure, shock. All forms have high mortality rates. Transmitted from mammal reservoirs via flea vectors or consumption of infected animal; transmission of pneumonic plague between humans via respiratory aerosols Culture of bacteria from lymph, blood, or sputum samples; DFA, ELISA Gentamycin, fluoroquinolones, others

Table 20.2: Viral Diseases of the Circulatory and Lymphatic Systems.
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
AIDS/HIV infection Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Flu-like symptoms during acute stage, followed by long period of clinical latency; final stage (AIDS) includes fever, weight loss, wasting syndrome, dementia, and opportunistic secondary infections leading to death Contact with body fluids (e.g., sexual contact, use of contaminated needles) Serological tests for antibodies and/or HIV antigens; nucleic acid test (NAT) for presence of virus Antiretroviral therapy (ART) using various combinations of drugs
Burkitt lymphoma Epstein-barr virus (human herpesvirus-4 [HHV-4]) Rapid formation of malignant B-cell tumors, oral hairy leukoplakia; fatal if not promptly treated Contact with body fluids (e.g., saliva, blood, semen); primarily affects patients immune-compromised by HIV or malaria CT scans, tumor biopsy Intensive alternating chemotherapy regimen
Ebola virus disease (EVD) Ebola virus Fever, headache, joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, hemorrhaging in gastrointestinal tract, organ failure; often fatal Contact with body fluids (e.g., blood, saliva, sweat, urine, feces, vomit); highly contagious ELISA, IgM ELISA, PCR, virus isolation None
Infectious mononucleosis Epstein-Barr Virus (HHV-4), cytomegalovirus (HHV-5) Pharyngitis, fever, extreme fatigue; swelling of lymph nodes, spleen, and liver Contact with body fluids (e.g., saliva, blood, semen) Tests for antibodies to various EBV-associated antigens None

Table 20.3: Parasitic Diseases of the Circulatory and Lymphatic Systems.
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs
Protozoa
Malaria Plasmodium vivax,
P. malariae,
P. falciparum,
P. ovale,
P. knowlesi
Extreme fever, chills, myalgia, nausea, and vomiting, possibly leading to organ failure and death Between humans via Anopheles mosquito vectors Blood smear, EIA Chloroquine, atovaquone, artemether, and lumefantrine
Toxoplasmosis Toxoplasma gondii Tissue cysts; in pregnant women, birth defects or miscarriage Contact with feces of infected cat; eating contaminated vegetables or undercooked meat of infected animal Serological tests, direct detection of pathogen in tissue sections Sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, spiramycin

Table 21.1: Bacterial Infections of the Nervous System.
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Antimicrobial Drugs Vaccine
Botulism Clostridium botulinum Blurred vision, drooping eyelids, difficulty swallowing and breathing, nausea, vomiting, often fatal Ingestion of preformed toxin in food, ingestion of endospores in food by infants or immunocompromised adults, bacterium introduced via wound or injection Antitoxin; penicillin (for wound botulism) None
Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis Haemophilus influenzae Nausea, vomiting, photophobia, stiff neck, confusion Direct contact, inhalation of aerosols Doxycycline, fluoroquinolones, second- and third-generation cephalosporins, and carbapenems Hib vaccine
Listeriosis Listeria monocytogenes Initial flu-like symptoms, sepsis and potentially fatal meningitis in susceptible individuals, miscarriage in pregnant women Bacterium ingested with contaminated food or water Ampicillin, gentamicin None
Meningococcal meningitis Neisseria meningitidis Nausea, vomiting, photophobia, stiff neck, confusion; often fatal Direct contact Cephalosporins or penicillins Meningococcal conjugate
Neonatal meningitis Streptococcus agalactiae Temperature instability, apnea, bradycardia, hypotension, feeding difficulty, irritability, limpness, seizures, bulging fontanel, stiff neck, opisthotonos, hemiparesis, often fatal Direct contact in birth canal Ampicillin plus gentamicin, cefotaxime, or both None
Pneumococcal meningitis Streptococcus pneumoniae Nausea, vomiting, photophobia, stiff neck, confusion, often fatal Direct contact, aerosols Cephalosporins, penicillin Pneumococcal vaccines
Tetanus Clostridium tetani Progressive spasmatic paralysis starting with the jaw, often fatal Bacterium introduced in puncture wound Penicillin, antitoxin DTaP, Tdap

Table 21.2: Acellular Infections of the Nervous System.
Disease Pathogen Signs and Symptoms Transmission Diagnostic Tests Antimicrobial Drugs Vaccine
Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease and other TSEs Prions Memory loss, confusion, blurred vision, uncoordinated movement, insomnia, coma, death Exposure to infected nerve tissue via consumption or transplant, inherited Tissue biopsy None None
Poliomyelitis Poliovirus Asymptomatic or mild nausea, fever, headache in most cases; in neurological infections, flaccid paralysis and potentially fatal respiratory paralysis Fecal-oral route or contact with droplets or aerosols Culture of poliovirus, PCR None Attenuated vaccine (Sabin), killed vaccine (Salk)
Rabies Rabies virus (RV) Fever, headaches, hyperactivity, hydrophobia, excessive salivation, terrors, confusion, spreading paralysis, coma, always fatal if not promptly treated From bite of infected mammal Viral antigen in tissue, antibodies to virus Attenuated vaccine, rabies immunoglobulin Attenuated vaccine
Zika virus infection Zika virus Fever, rash, conjunctivitis; in pregnant women, can cause fetal brain damage and microcephaly Between humans by Aedes spp. mosquito vectors, also may be transmitted sexually or via blood transfusion Zika virus RNA assay, Trioplex RT-PCR, Zika MAC-ELISA test None None


  1. Full names of vaccines listed in table: Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib); Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DtaP); tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap); diphtheria and tetanus (DT); tetanus and diphtheria (Td); diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DTP); Bacillus Calmette-Guérin; Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)

License

Icon for the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License

Allied Health Microbiology Copyright © 2019 by Open Stax and Linda Bruslind is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.