Overview of infectious diseases, Part 2

The choice of drug therapy in the treatment of infectious disease depends on many factors, including the probable sensitivity of likely pathogens and previous efficacy of the agent. Pharmacokinetic factors are crucial since good in vitro results cannot predict in vivo success unless the drug is present in effective concentration at the infection site. Combination therapy can be used in certain situations to improve the chances of clinical success. Part 3 of this series will conclude the discussion of drug therapy. The general manifestations of and recovery process from infectious diseases will also be discussed.