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Ch. 1 - The Microbial World and You
Chapter 1, Problem 23.1a

Show the path of Streptococcus from a focal infection to the pericardium. Identify the portals of entry for T. cruzi, Orthohantavirus, and Cytomegalovirus.
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Step 1: Understand the Pathway of Streptococcus from a Focal Infection to the Pericardium.
Step 2: Identify the Portals of Entry for Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi).
Step 3: Identify the Portals of Entry for Orthohantavirus.
Step 4: Identify the Portals of Entry for Cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Step 5: Summarize the Pathways and Portals of Entry for Each Pathogen.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Pathogenesis of Streptococcus

Streptococcus species can cause infections that start as localized focal infections, such as in the throat or skin. From these sites, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic infections. This can result in complications such as endocarditis or pericarditis, where the bacteria reach the pericardium, the membrane surrounding the heart, causing inflammation.
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Portals of Entry for Pathogens

Pathogens like T. cruzi, Orthohantavirus, and Cytomegalovirus have specific portals of entry into the host. T. cruzi typically enters through the skin via insect bites, Orthohantavirus is often transmitted through inhalation of aerosolized particles from rodent excreta, and Cytomegalovirus can enter through mucosal surfaces, such as saliva or sexual contact, highlighting the diverse mechanisms of pathogen entry.
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Systemic Spread of Infections

Once pathogens breach initial barriers, they can spread systemically through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This systemic spread allows pathogens to reach distant sites in the body, such as the heart in the case of Streptococcus, or various organs for viruses like Cytomegalovirus. Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing how localized infections can lead to severe systemic diseases.
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