"For more than a quarter-of-a-century Sherris has been unmatched in its ability to help you understand the nature of microorganisms and their role in the maintenance of health or causation of disease. Through a dynamic, engaging approach, this classic text gives you a solid grasp of the significance of etiologic agents, the pathogenic processes, epidemiology, and the basis of therapy for infectious diseases." "The fifth edition has been completely revised to reflect this rapidly-moving field's latest developments and includes a host of learning aids including clinical cases, USMLE-type questions, marginal notes, and extensive new full-color art."--Jacket.

Includes index.

The nature of infection / Kenneth J. Ryan and C. George Ray -- Pathogenic viruses / Nafees Ahmad, C. George Ray, and W. Lawrence Drew -- Pathogenic bacteria / Kenneth J. Ryan and W. Lawrence Drew -- Pathogenic fungi / Kenneth J. Ryan -- Pathogenic parasites / C. George Ray and James J. Plorde -- Clinical aspects of infection / C. George Ray, Kenneth J. Ryan, and W. Lawrence Drew.