These specialists care for patients in the hospital, as well as in outpatient clinics, whose illnesses are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites.
Infectious disease specialists provide comprehensive care for patients who need diagnosis and medical treatment for advanced or challenging infections of the body, including the heart, brain, lungs, bowel, bones and other organs.
They are trained in internal medicine, and have additional expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Their expertise includes specialized knowledge in immunology, epidemiology, infection control and the use of antibiotics and their possible adverse effects.
Below is a list of some of the conditions infectious disease physicians can help treat:
