Infection

This is an expression of the interaction between macro- and microorganisms. The form of infection spread depends on the pathogenic microorganisms, the factors of the body’s protection against infection, and the environmental factors. Local infection – a local damage to the body tissues by the action of pathogenic microorganisms. The local process usually occurs when the microbe penetrates the tissues locally and is typically described as a local inflammatory reaction. Local infections include angina, impetigo, diphtheria, erysipelas, and others. In certain cases, a local infection can develop into a general one. General infection – the entry of microorganisms into the blood and their spread throughout the body. Once in the body tissues, the microbe multiplies at the site of entry, later entering the blood. This spreading mechanism is characteristic of influenza, salmonellosis, spotted fever, syphilis, certain forms of tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, and others. Latent infection – a condition where a microorganism present and multiplying in the body tissues does not cause any symptoms.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė