Case study learning associated with microbial diseases of the skin & eyes, nervous system,
and cardiovascular & lymphatic systems
BIOL 2267: Medical Microbiology online, Fall 2023
DUE Monday, December 4, 11:59 pm in D2L Brightspace Assignment folder
Instructions: First, complete the informational tables assigned for this week (found in our D2L Brightspace siteàContentàCase study learningàNov. 27-Dec. 3). Second, read through each case study in the associated “Nov. 27-Dec. 3 case study stories” PDF document posted to D2L Brightspace (ContentàCase study learningàNov. 27-Dec. 3). While reading, pay attention to specific signs, symptoms, medical history, and other epidemiologic details that might be useful in answering the case study questions. Third, answer the following questions below, using complete sentences. Please type your answers into a document, and include your name, Week 1 Case studies, and the case study heading above each set of answers. Submit your answers as a Word document (.doc) or PDF (.pdf) to the associated Assignment folder in our D2L Brightspace site by the due date indicated above.
Case study 1: A Measles Outbreak among Internationally Adopted Children
1. What pathogen caused the outbreak? How was the pathogen transmitted?
2. Describe the serious complications that can result from measles. What risk group(s) are primarily susceptible to serious complications from measles?
3. How is measles prevented?
Case study 2: Outbreak of Invasive Group A Streptococcus at a Child Care Center
1. What group of streptococci caused this outbreak? What species of streptococci in this group is most the most common to cause human diseases?
2. What characteristics of the bacterial pathogen in this outbreak enable it to cause invasive infections? Consider virulence factors (a pathogen-produced substance that promotes the establishment and maintenance of disease) of the bacteria.
3. How would you treat the following symptoms that can be caused by this group of streptococci:
· Erysipelas (dermal layer infection, causes reddish skin patches with raised margins)
· Necrotizing fasciitis
Case study 3: A tetanus outbreak
1. What pathogen causes tetanus? Is there any danger of the disease spreading to family members or health care workers? In your answer, include an explanation of how the disease is transmitted.
2. Why did each patient in the case study require mechanical ventilation? In your answer, include how the pathogen can lead to respiratory distress.
3. How is tetanus prevented?
Case study 4: Girl with rash
1. On the basis of Meg’s medical history, recent activities, and presenting signs and symptoms, what is the most likely diagnosis for her condition/infection? What pathogen causes this condition/infection?
2. If this condition/infection were to progress further, what symptoms might you see?
3. How is this condition treated?
Case study 5: Meningitis outbreaks traced to raves and clubs
1. What are the key features of the disease in this case study that indicate it is meningitis and not simply a case of the “flu”?
2. How was the disease transmitted in the settings described in the case study?
3. Why is it important to quickly identify close contacts of those who come down with meningitis?
