10 Adaptive responses provide a ‘quantum leap’ in effective defence Introduction Infectious agents frequently find ways around the innate defences In Chapter 9, we discussed the many ways in which…
19 Lower respiratory tract infections Introduction Although the respiratory tract is continuous from the nose to the alveoli, it is convenient to distinguish between infections of the upper and lower…
2 The bacteria Introduction Although free-living bacteria exist in huge numbers, relatively few species cause disease. The majority of these are well known and well studied; however, new pathogens continue…
13 Entry, exit and transmission Introduction Microorganisms must attach to, or penetrate, the host’s body surfaces The mammalian host can be considered as a series of body surfaces (Fig. 13.1)….
11 The cellular basis of adaptive immune responses Introduction As we saw in a previous chapter, adaptive immune responses are generated by lymphocytes (Fig. 11.1), which are derived from stem…
36 Hospital infection, sterilization and disinfection Introduction Infections associated with healthcare settings are an increasingly complex issue Amassing sick people together under one roof has many advantages, but some disadvantages,…
30 Infections in the compromised host Introduction The human body has a complex system of protective mechanisms to prevent infection. This involves both the adaptive (cellular and humoral) immune system…
17 Pathologic consequences of infection Introduction Symptoms of infections are produced by the microorganisms or by the host’s immune responses Symptoms that appear rapidly after the acquisition of an infection…
18 Upper respiratory tract infections Introduction The mucociliary system and the flushing action of saliva are defences against upper respiratory tract infection The air we inhale contains millions of suspended…
14 Immune defences in action Introduction The barrier effects of the skin and mucous membranes and their adjuncts such as cilia have already been referred to (see Ch. 9). We…
