Medical Microbiology

Textbook for students of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy

TEXTBOOK FOR STUDENTS OF MEDICINE, DENTAL MEDICINE AND PHARMACY
Microorganisms – bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa colonize all ecological niches in nature. Many of them, known as saprophytes, live freely in soil and water, participating in the cycle of organic substances in nature. Others have adapted to evolve in humans, animals and plants, establishing complex relationships between them from symbiosis to parasitism.

Microbiology for the Healthcare…

Life on Earth, in all its dimensions, without microorganisms is impossible. From a medical point of view, a huge part of the tens of thousands of known types of microorganisms are harmless to the human body. About 520 to over 1000 types of bacteria have adapted to develop on the skin and mucous membranes of the human body, mainly in the gastrointestinal tract. Constituents •its microbiota (normal flora).

This eco-system is populated by trillions of bacteria and fungi, far exceeding the number of cells in the human body. They express between 2 and 9 million genes. The totality of which is defined as the microbiome. Also many times more than the genes in the human genome.

These bacteria play an irrevocable role in the chthological processes of the body with their antagonistic action. To other pathogenic agents with their participation in metabolic processes. Production of vitamins (B 12 and K), stimulation of the immune system and immune response. For a healthy organism, bacteria from the normal microbiota are harmless, but some of them cause infections in individuals with damaged defense mechanisms, as well as immunocompromised.

However, research shows that the microbiome of individuals is linked to a number of conditions and infectious diseases such as obesity and diabetes 1. Autoimmune (type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease), oncological and other diseases. Some types of microorganisms that have adapted to the human body, during their development, damage the body’s physiological processes. They are known as pathogenic microorganisms and are not part of the human microbiota.

After infection, they reside temporarily in the tissues and organs. Depending on the protective reactions of the body, various forms of the infectious process occur, from inapparent, unmanifested infection to mild and severe lethal forms of the infectious disease. Depending on their source and reservoir, a number of pathogenic microorganisms can spread epidemically and pandemicly between humans or between animals and humans.

Basic Medical Microbiology

In individuals with weakened protective reactions (after trauma, burns, oncological and other severe chronic diseases, drug addictions), non-pathogenic microorganisms – saprophytes from the environment and more often bacteria and fungi from the microbiota, known in this capacity – can also show pathogenicity such as opportunistic or opportunistic microorganisms.

Disturbances in the balance of the species of the normal flora, known as dysbiosis, as a result of the often irrational use of antibiotics, long-term treatment with cytostatics and immunosuppressants is also the reason for the development of infections from otherwise harmless for a healthy person types of microbiota, e.g. fungi developed in an excessively large amount on the basis of dysbacteriosis after the use of antibacterial antibiotics.

In order to understand the nature of the important human infectious disease agents in humans and their microbiome, it is necessary to know their structure, physiology and genetics, their resistance in the environment, pathogenicity factors they possess.

Understanding their relationship to the epidemiology, pathogenesis and clinic of infections, as well as the principles of microbiological diagnostics, is of great importance. The peculiarities of the infectious process and the protective mechanisms of innate and acquired immunity are irrevocable in the relationship between the invading microorganism and the person.

Microbiology has given the world epoch-making discoveries used in the prevention and therapy of infectious diseases: vaccines and antimicrobial agents. Discoveries in studying the genetic information of bacteria and viruses are the basis of modern genetics.
This study guide is dedicated to all these questions. It is intended primarily for students of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy, as well as for students in medical colleges and faculties of public health.
From the author’s team

CONTENTS:

1. GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY
2. INFECTION AND IMMUNITY
3. SPECIAL MICROBIOLOGY
– BACTERIA
– MUSHROOMS
– VIRUSES
4. MICROBES IN THE ENVIRONMENT
5. MICROBIOM
6. MICROBIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF INFECTIONS BY SYSTEMS

• Medical
• microbiology

 

The „Medical Microbiology Textbook“ is a comprehensive and invaluable resource designed specifically for students of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy. Tailored to meet the educational needs of these disciplines, the textbook delves into the intricate world of medical microbiology, providing students with a solid foundation in understanding the diverse and often microscopic organisms that play a crucial role in human health and disease.

The introductory sections of the textbook cover fundamental concepts in microbiology, including the classification of microorganisms, their structures, and functions. It explores the principles of microbial growth, reproduction, and the mechanisms by which these microorganisms interact with the human body. The foundational knowledge presented in these early chapters sets the stage for a more in-depth exploration of medical microbiology.

One of the distinguishing features of the textbook is its interdisciplinary approach. Recognizing the interconnectedness of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, the authors integrate relevant content from these fields throughout the book. This ensures that students not only understand the microbiological aspects but also appreciate the clinical implications in their respective disciplines.

The textbook systematically examines various groups of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, highlighting their pathogenic potential and the diseases they can cause. For each microbial group, the textbook covers topics such as epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies. By presenting this information in a clear and organized manner, the textbook aids students in developing a comprehensive understanding of medical microbiology.

A notable strength of the textbook is its emphasis on the practical application of knowledge. Case studies, clinical scenarios, and real-life examples are incorporated to illustrate the relevance of medical microbiology in clinical practice. This approach helps bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and the practical challenges faced by healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating infectious diseases.

Diagnostic techniques and laboratory procedures play a crucial role in medical microbiology, and the textbook dedicates sections to explaining these methodologies. From culturing and identifying microorganisms to advanced molecular diagnostic methods, students gain insight into the tools used to detect and characterize infectious agents. This knowledge is essential for students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy, where the ability to diagnose and treat infections is a fundamental skill.

In addition to focusing on the causative agents of infectious diseases, the textbook explores the body’s immune response and the principles of immunization. Understanding how the immune system interacts with microorganisms is critical for students as it forms the basis for vaccine development and immunotherapies.

As medical science is ever-evolving, the „Medical Microbiology Textbook“ is regularly updated to incorporate the latest research findings, emerging infectious diseases, and advancements in diagnostic technologies. This ensures that students are equipped with current and relevant information, preparing them for the dynamic nature of healthcare.

In conclusion, the „Medical Microbiology Textbook“ serves as an indispensable guide for students of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy. Its comprehensive coverage, integration of interdisciplinary knowledge, emphasis on practical applications, and commitment to staying current with advancements make it a valuable educational tool for aspiring healthcare professionals in their journey to understanding and combating infectious diseases.