MCQ on human diseases caused by Fungus

Q1. Which of the following diseases is caused by a fungus affecting the lungs?
a) Tuberculosis
b) Malaria
c) Histoplasmosis
d) Dengue Fever

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Correct Answer: c) Histoplasmosis
Explanation: Histoplasmosis is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. It primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, chest pain, and fatigue. The fungus is commonly found in soil containing bird or bat droppings, and people can become infected by inhaling fungal spores. In severe cases, histoplasmosis can spread beyond the lungs to other organs, leading to potentially life-threatening complications. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.

Q2. Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects which part of the body?
a) Nails
b) Scalp
c) Lungs
d) Kidneys

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Correct Answer: b) Scalp
Explanation: Ringworm, also known as tinea capitis, is a fungal infection that affects the scalp. It is caused by various species of dermatophyte fungi, such as Trichophyton and Microsporum. Ringworm of the scalp can result in hair loss, itching, and the formation of circular, scaly patches on the scalp. It is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects like combs or hats. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications applied topically or taken orally.

Q3. Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by which organism?
a) Candida albicans
b) Aspergillus fumigatus
c) Cryptococcus neoformans
d) Histoplasma capsulatum

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Correct Answer: a) Candida albicans
Explanation: Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. This fungus is a part of the normal flora in the mouth, digestive tract, and vagina, but it can overgrow and cause infection under certain conditions, such as weakened immune system, antibiotic use, or hormonal changes. Candidiasis can affect various parts of the body, including the mouth (oral thrush), genitals (vaginal yeast infection), skin, and bloodstream. Symptoms depend on the site of infection but may include itching, redness, and discharge.

Q4. Which fungal infection primarily affects the nails?
a) Athlete’s foot
b) Candidiasis
c) Onychomycosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: c) Onychomycosis
Explanation: Onychomycosis, commonly known as fungal nail infection, is caused by various fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. It affects the nails of the fingers and toes, leading to changes in nail color, texture, and thickness. Onychomycosis can cause discomfort, pain, and embarrassment due to the appearance of the affected nails. It is commonly acquired through exposure to warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, showers, or sweaty shoes. Treatment may involve topical or oral antifungal medications, as well as proper nail hygiene.

Q5. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with contaminated bird droppings?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Coccidioidomycosis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Histoplasmosis

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Correct Answer: d) Histoplasmosis
Explanation: Histoplasmosis is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which is commonly found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. Inhalation of fungal spores from contaminated soil can lead to infection, particularly in areas with large populations of birds or bats. Histoplasmosis primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, and chest pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other organs, resulting in complications. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.

Q6. Which fungal infection affects the central nervous system and is commonly associated with exposure to pigeon droppings?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Coccidioidomycosis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: c) Cryptococcosis
Explanation: Cryptococcosis is caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and can involve the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as headache, fever, confusion, and neck stiffness. Inhalation of fungal spores, often found in bird droppings (particularly pigeon droppings), can result in infection. Cryptococcosis can also affect other organs, including the lungs and skin. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, sometimes combined with surgical intervention for severe cases.

Q7. Which fungal infection primarily affects the sinuses and can invade into the brain and other facial structures?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Coccidioidomycosis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: d) Mucormycosis
Explanation: Mucormycosis, also known as zygomycosis, is caused by molds belonging to the order Mucorales, such as Rhizopus or Mucor species. It commonly affects immunocompromised individuals and can invade the sinuses, leading to symptoms such as facial pain, nasal congestion, and black nasal discharge. If left untreated, mucormycosis can spread to the brain, eyes, or other facial structures, resulting in severe complications and potentially death. Treatment involves aggressive antifungal therapy and sometimes surgical debridement of infected tissues.

Q8. Which fungal infection primarily affects the lungs and can disseminate to other organs, causing systemic symptoms?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Coccidioidomycosis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: b) Coccidioidomycosis
Explanation: Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever, is caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii. It primarily affects the lungs, causing symptoms such as cough, fever, chest pain, and fatigue. In some cases, the infection can disseminate to other organs, leading to systemic symptoms and potentially severe complications. Coccidioidomycosis is endemic to certain regions, particularly in the southwestern United States and parts of Central and South America. Treatment may involve antifungal medications, especially for severe or disseminated cases.

Q9. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with inhalation of mold spores and can cause allergic reactions or lung infections?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: a) Aspergillosis
Explanation: Aspergillosis is caused by the fungus Aspergillus, with Aspergillus fumigatus being the most common species involved in human infections. It can manifest in different forms, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), allergic fungal sinusitis, and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. Inhalation of Aspergillus spores can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals or cause lung infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Treatment depends on the severity and type of infection and may involve antifungal medications, corticosteroids, or surgery.

Q10. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV/AIDS?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: c) Cryptococcosis
Explanation: Cryptococcosis is caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Inhalation of fungal spores, often found in soil contaminated with bird droppings, can lead to infection. Cryptococcosis commonly involves the lungs and central nervous system, causing symptoms such as pneumonia, meningitis, headache, fever, and confusion. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, with combination therapy often used for severe cases.

Q11. Which fungal infection primarily affects the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: b) Candidiasis
Explanation: Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It can affect various parts of the body, including the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, leading to symptoms such as white patches, soreness, and difficulty swallowing. Candidiasis of the mouth and throat is known as oral thrush and is commonly seen in infants, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, such as topical creams or oral rinses.

Q12. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with contaminated soil in regions with hot, arid climates?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Coccidioidomycosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: c) Coccidioidomycosis
Explanation: Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever, is caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii. It is endemic to certain regions with hot, arid climates, particularly in the southwestern United States and parts of Central and South America. Inhalation of fungal spores from contaminated soil can lead to infection, primarily affecting the lungs and causing symptoms such as fever, cough, chest pain, and fatigue. In some cases, the infection can disseminate to other organs, resulting in systemic symptoms and potentially severe complications. Treatment may involve antifungal medications.

Q13. Which fungal infection primarily affects the respiratory system and is commonly associated with exposure to moldy environments?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: a) Aspergillosis
Explanation: Aspergillosis is caused by the fungus Aspergillus, with Aspergillus fumigatus being the most common species involved in human infections. It primarily affects the respiratory system, particularly the lungs, causing symptoms such as cough, wheezing, fever, and chest pain. Inhalation of Aspergillus spores, commonly found in moldy environments such as damp buildings or decaying organic matter, can lead to infection. Aspergillosis can manifest in different forms, including allergic reactions or invasive pulmonary disease, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Treatment depends on the severity and type of infection and may involve antifungal medications, corticosteroids, or surgery.

Q14. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with diabetes mellitus and can cause necrosis of the soft tissues?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Mucormycosis

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Correct Answer: d) Mucormycosis
Explanation: Mucormycosis, also known as zygomycosis, is caused by molds belonging to the order Mucorales, such as Rhizopus or Mucor species. It commonly affects individuals with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, particularly those with diabetic ketoacidosis. Mucormycosis can manifest as rhinocerebral, pulmonary, cutaneous, or gastrointestinal infection, with rhinocerebral mucormycosis being the most common form in diabetic patients. This condition can cause necrosis of the soft tissues, leading to facial pain, black nasal discharge, and potentially life-threatening complications. Treatment involves aggressive antifungal therapy and sometimes surgical debridement of infected tissues.

Q15. Which fungal infection primarily affects the lungs and is commonly associated with bird or bat droppings?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Histoplasmosis

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Correct Answer: d) Histoplasmosis
Explanation: Histoplasmosis is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which is commonly found in soil containing bird or bat droppings. Inhalation of fungal spores from contaminated soil can lead to infection, primarily affecting the lungs. Histoplasmosis can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, chest pain, and fatigue. In severe cases, the infection can spread to other organs, resulting in potentially life-threatening complications. Histoplasmosis is endemic to certain regions, particularly in areas with large populations of birds or bats. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.

Q16. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with contaminated water sources and can affect the lungs and central nervous system?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Histoplasmosis

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Correct Answer: c) Cryptococcosis
Explanation: Cryptococcosis is caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. It can affect various organs, including the lungs and central nervous system. Inhalation of fungal spores, often found in soil contaminated with bird droppings or in contaminated water sources, can lead to infection. Cryptococcosis can cause pneumonia, meningitis, headache, fever, and confusion, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, with combination therapy often used for severe cases.

Q17. Which fungal infection primarily affects the skin between the toes and is commonly associated with warm, moist environments?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Onychomycosis
d) Athlete’s foot

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Correct Answer: d) Athlete’s foot
Explanation: Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that primarily affects the skin between the toes. It is caused by dermatophyte fungi, particularly Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species. Athlete’s foot thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and sweaty shoes, making athletes more susceptible to infection. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, such as topical creams or sprays, along with keeping the affected area clean and dry.

Q18. Which fungal infection primarily affects the nails and can cause thickening, discoloration, and brittleness?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Onychomycosis
d) Athlete’s foot

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Correct Answer: c) Onychomycosis
Explanation: Onychomycosis, commonly known as fungal nail infection, is caused by various fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. It affects the nails of the fingers and toes, leading to changes in nail color, texture, and thickness. Onychomycosis can cause discomfort, pain, and embarrassment due to the appearance of the affected nails. It is commonly acquired through exposure to warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, showers, or sweaty shoes. Treatment may involve topical or oral antifungal medications, as well as proper nail hygiene.

Q19. Which fungal infection primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Histoplasmosis

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Correct Answer: b) Candidiasis
Explanation: Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, can affect various parts of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. Overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans in the gut can lead to gastrointestinal candidiasis, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and fever. Candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract often occurs in individuals with weakened immune systems, those taking antibiotics, or individuals with underlying medical conditions. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications and dietary modifications to reduce sugar intake, which can fuel fungal growth.

Q20. Which fungal infection is commonly associated with immunocompromised individuals and can cause invasive disease with high mortality rates?
a) Aspergillosis
b) Candidiasis
c) Cryptococcosis
d) Histoplasmosis

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Correct Answer: a) Aspergillosis
Explanation: Aspergillosis is caused by the fungus Aspergillus, with Aspergillus fumigatus being the most common species involved in human infections. It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation, or cancer. Aspergillosis can manifest as invasive pulmonary disease, sinusitis, or disseminated infection, with invasive forms carrying high mortality rates. Symptoms depend on the site and severity of infection but may include fever, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Treatment involves aggressive antifungal therapy and, in some cases, surgical intervention.

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