Parasitology Quiz WITH Questions and Correct Answers 2023

Definitive host - Host in which the parasite reaches sexual maturity - sexual reproduction takes place in the host Intermediate host - Host in which asexual reproduction or larval development takes place - allows continuation of life cycle Vector - transmitting agent What are the key factors that would lead you to suspect that a parasite (rather than a virus or bacterium) was responsible for some gastrointestinal illness - 1. Potential for infection (travel history) 2. Lab test showing an elevated eosinophil 3. Incubation period greater than 2 days 4. microscopic ID Cite 2 examples where insect vectors transmit parasitic organisms to humans - malaria elephantiasis - transmitted by a mosquito Describe the probable roles of IgE antibody and eosinophils in combating parasitic infections - Eosinophil evolved specifically as a defense against the tissue stages of parasites that were too large to be phagocytosed. The IgE dependent mast cell reaction eveolved to localize eosinophils on or near the parasite trophozoite - is the metabolically active and motile stage of many protozoan parasites Describe the general characteristics of the major categories of a parasite - 1. Protozoa - single cellular 2. Metazoa - multi-cellular What is a reservoir - Host where the parasite can survive and proliferate but not necessarily cause apparent disease (a source) cyst - generally smaller than the trophozoite and has an outer protective layer to enhance survival of the environment oocyst - A stage of one of the more complex protozoan organisms - often the infective stage for humans - e.g. Cryptosporidium, toxoplasma tissue cyst - Used in worm infections when they get into the tissue and wall themselves off and form a cyst What roll does ADCC play in parasite immunity - Acts as a bridge between a parasite and one of the killer cells Often the immune response is not sufficient to rid the parasite What roll does TNF and IL-1 play in parasite immunity - it can stimulate goblet cell proliferation and increase the production of mucous which will help with the expulsion of the worm