Fungal diseases

• What are fungi classified as in terms of cell type?

  Eukaryotic organisms
• What types of organisms are included in the fungi group?

  Yeasts, moulds, and mushrooms
• How do fungi act as pathogens?

  They invade and damage host cells
• What structures do fungi use to penetrate tissues?

  Hyphae
• What is one way fungi spread infection?

  By releasing spores
• What is a common disease caused by fungi in humans?

  Athlete’s foot
• What are the characteristics of fungi as pathogens?

  • Eukaryotic cells
  • Single-celled or multicellular
  • Hyphae grow and penetrate tissues
  • Invade and damage host cells
  • Absorb nutrients from the host
  • Release spores to spread infection
  • Some produce toxins
• What is the mode of transmission for athlete’s foot?

  Direct contact
• How does rose black spot spread?

  By rainwater
• What type of spores cause mould infections?

  Airborne spores
• What are vectors in the context of fungal diseases?

  Animals, humans, and insects
• What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?

  Itchy, flaky, cracked skin
• How is ringworm transmitted?

  Direct contact with infected individuals
• What causes thrush in humans?

  Imbalance of microbes
• What is the pathogen that causes rose black spot?

  Diplocarpon rosae fungus
• What are the symptoms of rose black spot?

  Purple or black spots on leaves
• How does powdery mildew affect plants?

  Causes a white powdery coating on leaves
• What are the methods of transmission for fungal diseases?

  • Direct contact
  • Water
  • Airborne spores
  • Vectors (animals, humans, insects)
• How does the body defend against fungal infections?

  1. Skin barrier prevents entry
  2. White blood cells destroy fungal cells
  3. Microbiome competes with fungi
• Why are fungal infections harder to treat than bacterial infections?

  Fungi have eukaryotic cells like humans
• What type of medication is used to treat fungal infections?

  Antifungal drugs
• What are the methods to prevent fungal diseases?

  • Good hygiene
  • Keeping skin dry
  • Using fungicides
  • Removing infected plant parts
  • Improving airflow and reducing humidity
• What is the role of good hygiene in preventing fungal diseases?

  Avoids direct skin contact with infected surfaces
• How do fungicides work?

  They kill fungi
• Why is it important to remove infected plant parts?

  Stops the spread of fungal spores
• How does airflow help prevent fungal growth on plants?

  Prevents humidity that fosters growth
• What are key points about fungal diseases for exams?

  • Fungi are eukaryotic organisms
  • Can affect humans and plants
  • Transmission methods include direct contact and spores
  • Treated with antifungal drugs, not antibiotics
  • Preventative measures include hygiene and fungicides