Exam 15: Microbial Mechanisms of Pathogenicity

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Some pathogens have evolved the ability to evade phagocytosis, the process by which immune cells engulf and destroy invading microorganisms. This allows them to avoid being destroyed by the immune system and to establish infection within the host. The advantage of this evasion strategy is that it enables the pathogen to survive and replicate within the host, leading to the development of disease. However, the disadvantage is that it can also trigger an exaggerated immune response, leading to tissue damage and the development of severe symptoms.

On the other hand, some pathogens have developed the ability to enter host cells, where they can evade host defenses and continue to replicate. This evasion strategy allows the pathogen to hide from the immune system and to establish a chronic infection within the host. The advantage of this strategy is that it allows the pathogen to persist within the host for extended periods of time, potentially leading to the spread of the infection to other individuals. However, the disadvantage is that it can also lead to long-term damage to host tissues and organs, as well as the development of chronic symptoms.

In conclusion, both evasion strategies allow pathogens to avoid host defenses and establish infection within the host. However, they also have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of the development and spread of disease, as well as the long-term impact on host health.