Summary
Fungi like Candida and Aspergillus cause infections, particularly in immunocompromised people.
In depth
Candida albicans causes thrush and invasive disease; Aspergillus fumigatus infects lungs; Cryptococcus affects the brain; Candida auris is multidrug resistant. Antifungals target ergosterol (azoles, amphotericin B).
Fungi are eukaryotes, so drugs often have more toxicity.
Fungal infections are often difficult to treat. Immunocompromised patients are at risk. Climate change expands ranges of some fungi.
Remember: fungal and human cells are both eukaryotic, so drug selectivity is limited.
Frequently asked questions
What is Fungal Pathogens?
Fungi like Candida and Aspergillus cause infections, particularly in immunocompromised people.
Which area of biology covers Fungal Pathogens, and how advanced is it?
Fungal Pathogens is one of the 54 topics in Microbiology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Biofilms, Protozoan Parasites, Antibiotics.
Can you give an example of Fungal Pathogens?
Athlete's foot is caused by dermatophyte fungi.
What should I learn before Fungal Pathogens?
Work through the Beginner topics in Microbiology first, such as Microorganisms, Bacteria, Archaea, then return to Fungal Pathogens. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Fungal Pathogens?
The closest topics to Fungal Pathogens are Biofilms, Protozoan Parasites, Antibiotics, Toxins. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Fungal Pathogens?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Fungal Pathogens. To practise the whole of Microbiology, use the Microbiology quiz.
How is Fungal Pathogens different from Biofilms?
Fungal Pathogens: Fungi like Candida and Aspergillus cause infections, particularly in immunocompromised people. Biofilms: Structured communities of microbes embedded in a self-made matrix, resistant to antibiotics and immune attack. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Fungal Pathogens step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Biofilms and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Microbiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.