Infectious diseases have burdened humanity for millennia. Concepts of contagion and its prevention have slowly developed in different cultures over centuries. In the 19th century, Louis Pasteur introduced the germ theory of disease, which described the relationship between microorganisms and illnesses, putting an end to the predominant theory of spontaneous generation. Infectious diseases are currently defined as clinical conditions attributed to specific microorganisms, which are known as “pathogens.”
In this course, the student will be taught about major infections that affect the body systems. For optimal comprehension, the student is required to have a basic understanding of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells and the differences between them, the structure and general classification of bacteria and viruses, and the mechanisms of innate and adaptive immunity.
In the previous century, infectious diseases were the most important causes of morbidity and mortality. After the advent of antibiotics, these diseases are less prevalent; however, they are often encountered in clinical practice. Although these diseases are currently not as devastating as they previously were, it is important for the healthcare provider to promptly detect infections and initiate pharmacological management. Furthermore, the increase in antibiotic resistance and emergence of “superbugs” require providers to be extremely thorough during assessments, so that they can accurately determine if the current clinical scenario requires antibiotic therapy.
Learning objectives
After the completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain the fundamentals of host-pathogen interactions and vector-borne disease transmission.
- Describe the epidemiology, etiology, and geographic/seasonal patterns of common infectious diseases.
- Differentiate pathogens responsible for infections across different organ systems in adults.
- Evaluate clinical presentations and diagnostic criteria for infectious diseases in adults.
- Apply appropriate diagnostic testing, including laboratory and imaging studies, for infectious diseases.
- Evaluate the complete spectrum of HIV infection, including pathophysiology, management, and prognosis.
- Interpret diagnostic criteria for specific infections (e.g., Duke criteria, Centor criteria).
- Generate differential diagnoses for common infectious disease presentations.
- Identify complications of major infectious diseases.
- Discuss the adequate use of antibiotics depending on the location of the infection and bacterial sensitivity.
Course outline
- Microbiology Review
- CNS Infection—Infectious Diseases
- Cardiovascular Infections
- Upper Respiratory Infections
- Lower Respiratory Infections
- Gastrointestinal Infections
- Genital and Sexually Transmitted Infections
- Urinary Tract Infections
