Microbiology

Clinical microbiology is the study of microorganisms that cause disease, known as pathogens. Microorganisms, or microbes, are tiny living things that can only be seen with a microscope. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and helminths. Understanding microbiology is crucial for diagnosing and treating infections. It also plays an important role in preventing the spread of contagious illnesses.

Bacterial Infections

Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that exist virtually everywhere, including on and inside the human body. Most bacteria are harmless or even beneficial to human health. However, certain bacteria have evolved to cause infectious diseases if they gain access to normally sterile sites in the body. Some common types of bacterial infections include pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections like cellulitis or impetigo, and enteric (intestinal) illnesses like salmonellosis. Bacteria are typically treated with antibiotics, which are medications that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Knowing which bacteria usually cause which infections helps Clinical Microbiology select the most appropriate antibiotic. Factors like antibiotic resistance patterns must also be considered when choosing therapy.

Viral Infections

Unlike bacteria, viruses can only replicate inside host cells. They have a much smaller genome and more limited metabolic activity compared to cellular life forms. Famous viral diseases include influenza, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, herpes, Ebola, and the common cold.

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