Using a clinically relevant, systems-based approach, this medical textbook accessibly explains the microbiology of the agents that cause diseases and the diseases that affect individual organ systems. With lavish illustrations and straightforward, accessible explanations, Richard Goering makes this complex subject simple to understand and remember. 150 multiple choice review questions. "Pathogen Parade" and many other features to enhance learning and retention. Enhance your learning and absorb complex information in an interactive, dynamic way. Deepen your understanding of epidemiology and the important role it plays in providing evidence-based identification of key risk factors for disease and targets for preventive medicine. A completely re-written chapter on this topic keeps abreast of the very latest findings.

"Student consult"--Cover.

Microbes as parasites -- The bacteria -- The viruses -- The fungi -- The protozoa -- The helminths and arthropods -- Prions -- The host-parasite relationship -- The innate defences of the body -- Adaptive responses provide a 'quantum leap' in effective defence -- The cellular basis of adaptive immune responses -- Background to the infectious diseases -- Entry, exit and transmission -- Immune defences in action -- Spread and replication -- Parasite survival strategies and persistent infections -- Pathologic consequences of infection -- Upper respiratory tract infections -- Lower respiratory tract infections -- Urinary tract infections -- Sexually transmitted infections -- Gastrointestinal tract infections -- Obstetric and perinatal infections -- Central nervous system infections -- Infections of the eye -- Infections of the skin, soft tissue, muscle and associated systems -- Vector-bone infections -- Multisystem zoonoses -- Fever of unknown origin -- Infections in the compromised host -- Diagnosis of infection and assessment of host defense mechanisms -- Epidemiology and control of infectious diseases -- Attacking the enemy: antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy -- Protecting the host: vaccination -- Passive and non-specific immunotherapy -- Hospital infection, sterilization and disinfection.