Types Of Fungal Infections! Trivia Questions Quiz

Spores are reproductive structures produced by mold. They are small, lightweight, and easily dispersed in the environment. When conditions are favorable, spores can germinate and give rise to new mold colonies. This process allows mold to reproduce and spread to new areas. Therefore, the correct answer is spores.

Dimorphic fungi refers to fungi that have the ability to grow as either yeast or mold depending on the temperature or environment. This means that under certain conditions, these fungi can exist as single-celled yeast forms, while under other conditions, they can form multicellular filamentous structures called hyphae. The term "dimorphic" highlights the dual nature of these fungi and their ability to switch between two distinct growth forms. Therefore, dimorphic fungi is the correct answer in this context.

Hypae are threadlike branching tubules composed of fungal cells that are attached to end beds. They are a characteristic feature of fungi and play a crucial role in their growth and nutrient absorption. Hypae are responsible for the spread of fungi and the formation of mycelium, which is the vegetative part of the fungus. Therefore, the presence of hypae is a defining characteristic of fungi.

Saprophytes are organisms, such as fungi, that obtain their energy by decomposing dead organic matter. They play an important role in breaking down organic material and recycling nutrients back into the environment. In this case, the fungi described in the question are using soil and rotten veggies as their energy source, indicating that they are saprophytes.

Yeast is the correct answer because unicellular growth of fungi can appear spherical to episodical and reproduce by budding. If the buds do not separate, they can form long chains of cells known as pseudohyphae. Yeast is a type of fungus that exhibits this type of growth pattern.

The given description of multicellular colonies composed of clumps of intertwined and branching hyphae matches the characteristics of mold. Mold is a type of fungus that forms multicellular structures called hyphae, which are thread-like structures that intertwine and branch out. Mold colonies can be seen as clumps of these hyphae, making it the correct answer in this case.

Keratinase is the enzyme present in cutaneous fungal infections that degrades skin, causing loss of hair and brittle nails. This enzyme breaks down keratin, which is a protein found in the outer layer of the skin, hair, and nails. When keratin is degraded by keratinase, it weakens the structure of these tissues, leading to various symptoms such as skin degradation, hair loss, and brittle nails.

The correct answer is that the 4 levels of fungal infections are superficial (skin), cutaneous (skin, hair, nails), subcutaneous, and systemic (blood).

The two superficial fungal infections mentioned are Pityriasis versicolor and Tinea nigra. Pityriasis versicolor is characterized by hyperpigmented patches that remain white after suntanning, while Tinea nigra presents as painless patches on the soles of hands and feet caused by Exophiala werneckii. Both infections can be treated with selenium sulfide.

The correct answer lists the five common cutaneous fungal infections. Tinea corporis is a fungal infection that appears as a ringworm under the skin. Tinea capitis is a fungal infection on the scalp, characterized by scaly red regions and hair loss. Tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot, occurs between the toes. Tinea cruris, or jock itch, causes a scratchy red area in the groin region. Tinea unguium affects the nails, causing them to become thickened, discolored, and brittle. Candida albicans is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth, groin, and vagina.

The two subcutaneous fungal infections mentioned are sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix schenckii and chromoblastomycosis caused by Phialophora and Cladosporium. Sporotrichosis is a hazard for gardeners and is characterized by the development of subcutaneous nodules that become necrotic and ulcerative. On the other hand, chromoblastomycosis is found in rotting wood and presents as violent colored wart-like clusters of lesions that resemble cauliflower.

Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungi that can be mistaken for tuberculosis. It grows as a mycelial form with spores at 25 degrees on Sabouraud's agar. In humans, it grows as yeast. The infection occurs when the spores are inhaled and it is not transmitted from person to person. It initially causes a local infection in the lungs and can then spread to the bloodstream.

Cryptococcus neoformans is a type of yeast that is encapsulated and has a polysaccharide capsule. It is not dimorphic, meaning it does not have two distinct forms. The yeast is typically inhaled into the lungs and can cause a severe infection known as meningoencephalitis, which affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This infection is more commonly seen in individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly those with AIDS.

Aspergillus flavus is a type of mold that can be found everywhere, as its spores are widely distributed. Some individuals may develop a type I hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to these spores. Additionally, this mold is known for producing Aflatoxin, a toxin commonly found in peanuts, grains, and rice.