Host invasion by microorganisms
Introduction
One of the main causes of disease is infection by microorganisms, with four types so far identified:
A fifth controversial type are Pirons, which are infectious proteins that are believed to be the cause of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and the human variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (vCJD).
All exist as either:
- Primary pathogens (obligate): presence always corresponds with disease
- Secondary (opportunistic): prerequisites must be fulfilled before disease occurs
Microorganisms can enter the body by three routes:
- Contact: typically seen in dermatological infections
- Aerosol: typically respiratory infections
- Orofecal:typically enteric infections
| Host invasion by microorganisms Learning Resources | |
|---|---|
 Test your knowledge using flashcard type questions |
Host Invasion Flashcards |
References
- Murphy, K., Travers, P. and Walport, M. (2008) Janeway's Immunobiology. 7th ed. New York: Garland Science Publishing.
 |
This article has been peer reviewed but is awaiting expert review. If you would like to help with this, please see more information about expert reviewing. |
|
Originally funded by the RVC Jim Bee Award 2007 |