Mycology, which is the study of fungi, is an important topic in microbiology. Fungal infections are becoming increasingly common, making mycology a highly relevant topic for the NEET PG exam.
Moreover, fungal infections can often mimic bacterial or viral infections, which makes it all the more essential to have a strong understanding of mycology in order to avoid misdiagnosis.
Smooth mucoid creamy colonies (SDA cannot differentiate Cryptococcus and Candida)
Phenyl oxidase enzyme in Cryptococcus – responsible for melanin production
On Niger seed agar – Brown black colonies are seen
Latex card agglutination Test for Cryptococcal Antigen
PCR for C. Neoformans
Capsulated organism (Polysaccharide) - Indian ink staining (negative stain)
Polysaccharide capsule → Virulence factor
Treatment
DOC Cryptococcal meningitis - Lysosomal amphotericin B (LAMB)+ Flucytosine
Zygomycetes
Seen in Terminally ill patients
Rhizopus
Absidia
Mucor
Rhinocerebral Zygomycosis is a fulminant disease
Lab Diagnosis
Tissue biopsy - H & E stain
Aseptate hyphae
Obtuse angled
Biopsy material on SDA
Culture growth + LPCB
Rhizopus
Different Zygomycetes
Absidia – Inter nodal rhizoids arrangement
Mucor - No rhizoids
Mucormycosis
Mucormycosis is commonly seen in
DM
Frequent blood transfusion
Chronic dialysis
Aspergillosis
Common in DM, Immunodeficient
A. Fumigatus
Leads to allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Associated with aspergilloma (Fungal balls)
Oculomycosis
Otomycosis
On SDA Greenish colour colonies in SDA
A. Niger
Blackish crust from ear
On SDA - Black coloured colonies
A. Flavus
produces aflatoxin which leads to hepato cellular Carcinoma
Lab Diagnosis: On Tissue Biopsy + H & E Staining
Septate hyphae
Dichotomous branching
Mostly Angle 45º
Important Information
Ergotoxicosis
Claviceps purpurea seed along with edibles.
St. Anthony’s fire or St. Vitus dance
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