Rose-Picker's Disease Is Caused by the Yeast Sporothrix Schenkii (S

question 2

Multiple Choice

Rose-picker's disease is caused by the yeast Sporothrix schenkii (S. schenkii) . The yeast grows on the exteriors of rose-bush thorns. If a human gets pricked by such a thorn, the yeasts can be introduced under the skin. The yeasts then assume a hyphal morphology and grow along the interiors of lymphatic vessels until they reach a lymph node. This often results in the accumulation of pus in the lymph node, which subsequently ulcerates through the skin surface and then drains.
Humans have immune systems in which lymph nodes are important, because many white blood cells (phagocytes and lymphocytes) reside there. Given that a successful infection by S. schenkii damages lymph nodes themselves, which of the following is most probable?

• A) The hyphae secrete antibiotics, which increases the ability of the infected human to tolerate the fungus.
• B) The fungal conversion from yeast to hyphal morphology allows such fast growth that the body's defences are at least temporarily overwhelmed.
• C) Defensive cells of humans cannot detect foreign cells that are covered with cell walls composed of cellulose.
• D) Given that most fungal pathogens attack plants, human defences are simply not adapted to seek out and destroy fungi.

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Definitions:

Hypochondriasis

A disorder characterized by excessive worry and preoccupation with having a serious illness despite medical reassurance.

Adenohypophysis

The anterior, glandular part of the pituitary gland responsible for the release of hormones.

Neurohypophysis

The posterior portion of the pituitary gland responsible for the storage and release of hormones like ADH and oxytocin.

Corticotropin

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol, involved in stress response.