Parasitology 1: Introduction and gastrointestinal protozoa

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Headshot of Joanna Breems, MD, FACP · Clinical Assistant Professor
Joanna Breems
MD, FACP · Clinical Assistant Professor
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Richard Davis
Ph.D., D(ABMM), MLS(ASCP) · Microbiology and Infectious Disease contributor
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Table of Contents

Learning goals

  1. Describe and give examples of a definitive host, an intermediate host, a dead-end host, and an incidental host
  2. Classify parasites into five primary types and then organize them into secondary groupings based on morphology, motility, and major organ systems they affect
  3. Describe four modes of transmission for parasites to enter a human host and give two parasite examples of each
  4. Compare and contrast the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases caused by Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium

Parasitology is a large topic. We have selected the most relevant organisms to review in detail, with a focus on clinical aspects of the disease, epidemiologic associations, and basics of treatment. Large-group session will be interactive question/answer and audience response. There will be opportunities to engage with your colleagues to solve clinical cases.

Pre-session preparation, to familiarize yourself with the names/types of pathogens to be discussed, will maximize what you get from the sessions.

Required pre-class materials

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These are not required. They are a curated list of resources that are of highest yield for the stated learning objectives.  

Click the  blue icons below to go to the resources listed.

  • Classification, form, and function
  • Host types and transmission patterns
  • Section on Cryptosporidium-Cyclospora
  • Section on Entamoeba histolytica
  • Section on Giardia

  • Sketchy Medical

    These videos can be useful tools as a memory aid. Use the learning objectives to help prioritize the information.

  • Protozoa—GI: P-1.1 (Giardia)
  • P-1.2 (Entamoeba histolytica)
  • P-1.3 (Cryptosporidium)

check yourself

Review this case study to check your learning.