Question

Fungal disease in humans is caused by

Answer 1

1. Candida albicans: This yeast-like fungus is part of the normal human microbiota and is typically harmless. However, it can cause infections such as oral thrush (in the mouth) and vaginal yeast infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

2. Aspergillus spp.: Aspergillus is a group of molds commonly found in the environment. Inhalation of Aspergillus spores can lead to various respiratory infections, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and invasive aspergillosis, which can be life-threatening in immunocompromised individuals.

3. Cryptococcus neoformans: This fungus is commonly found in soil and bird droppings. Inhalation of its spores can lead to cryptococcosis, which primarily affects the lungs and central nervous system, causing symptoms such as pneumonia and meningitis, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.

4. Histoplasma capsulatum: Histoplasma is found in soil, particularly in areas with bird or bat droppings. Inhalation of Histoplasma spores can lead to histoplasmosis, which primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other organs, causing symptoms ranging from mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia and systemic infection.

5. Tinea spp.: Various species of dermatophyte fungi, collectively known as Tinea, can cause superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails, collectively known as tinea or ringworm. Examples include athlete's foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), and jock itch (tinea cruris).

6. Pneumocystis jirovecii: Formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii, this fungus causes pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), a severe lung infection that primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.