Chapter 12, Problem 1R

Summary Introduction

Introduction

Fungal infection invades the host tissues at various level and causes different types of mycosis. Each genus of fungi has different method of entry. The types of mycosis vary depending on the site of infection. The development of fungal infection is based on the physiological and environmental conditions.

Explanation of Solution

Genus	Method of  Entry	Site of infection	Mycosis
Blastomyces	Inhalation	Lungs	(a) Systemic mycosis
Sporothrix	Puncture	Ulcerative  lesions	(b) Subcutaneous mycosis
Microsporum	Contact	Fingernails	(d) Cutaneous mycosis
Trichosporon	Contact	Hair Shafts	(e) Superficial mycosis
Aspergillus	Inhalation	Lungs	(f) Systemic mycosis

There are different types of mycosis. They are cutaneous, opportunistic, subcutaneous, superficial, or systemic. Superficial mycosis occurs in the hair shaft or skin. Superficial infections include black piedra, white piedra, pityriasis, versicolor, and tinea nigra. This type of mycosis is highly transmitted through contact. Cutaneous mycosis involves stratum corneum, deep layer of the epidermis of the tissue. They may also include nails and hair. A subcutaneous mycosis occurs deep due to a puncture. The different sites of subcutaneous mycosis include respiratory, blood vessel, and gastrointestinal tract. Cutaneous mycoses are classified into dermatophytoses and dermatomycosis based on the specific genera casing the infection. This mycosis involves skin, hair, and nail. In opportunistic mycosis, spores enter the lungs and paranasal site, and cause different fungal infections.

Conclusion

Fungal infection causes mycosis in the host cell and they are treated by empirical or prophylactic antibiotics. Hospitals should maintain a spore free environment. Identification and administration of new antifungal agents helps in preventing severe fungal infections.