Microbiology and principles of antimicrobial therapy for head and neck infections
1Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, 4431 Albemarle St. NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA. ib6@georgetown.edu
Abstract:
The principles of antimicrobial management for head and neck infections include establishing an accurate clinical and microbiologic diagnosis and treating the patient initially with an empiric antimicrobial regimen based on predicted likelihood of success and reduced potential for resistance. Subsequent adjustments may be required based on clinical response and available culture results. This article summarizes the aerobic and anaerobic microbiology of selected acute and chronic infections of the head and neck and the approaches to antimicrobial therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Tonsillitis II: Management
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
Key Techniques in Microbiology
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology
