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In this article we will discuss about the meaning and types of infection.
Meaning of Infection:
Infection can be defined as the process of lodgment and multiplication of a parasitic organism within or on a host. Infection is a common natural event and does not invariably result in disease. In fact, disease is a rare consequence of infection.
Whenever, an infection so progresses that it results in a disease, the latter is called an infectious disease. The infectious disease therefore differs from infection and can be defined as any change from a state of health in which part or all of the host body is not capable of carrying on its normal functions under the influence of a parasite or its products. The parasite that produces an infectious disease is called a pathogen and its ability to cause infectious disease is called pathogenicity.
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The nature of an infection may vary widely with respect to location, severity, and number of parasitic organisms involved.
Types of Infection:
Various types of infections are categorized and are given as follows:
1. Abscess:
A localized infection with a collection of pus surrounded by an inflamed area.
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2. Acute Infection:
Short but relatively severe course of infection.
3. Bacteremia:
Presence of viable bacteria in the blood.
4. Chronic Infection:
Infection that persists over a long period.
5. Convert Infection:
Subclinical infection; no symptoms.
6. Cross Infection:
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A new infection acquired by a patient while already suffering from a disease.
7. Focal Infection:
A condition where, due to infection or sepsis at localized sites such as appendix or tonsils, generalized effects are produced.
8. Fulminating Infection:
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Infection occurs suddenly and the infectious agent multiplies with great intensity.
9. Latent Infection:
Infection that persists in tissues for long periods, during most of which symptoms do not manifest.
10. Localized Infection:
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Restricted to a limited region or to one or more anatomical areas.
11. Nosscomial Infection:
The infection that develops during a stay at a hospital or other clinical care facility.
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12. Primary Infection:
Initial infection with a parasite.
13. Pyogenic Infection:
Infection that results in pus formation.
14. Reinfection:
Subsequent infections by the same parasite in the host.
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15. Secondary Infection:
When a new parasite sets up an infection in a host whose resistance is lowered by a pre-existing infectious disease.
16. Septicemia:
Blood poisoning associated with persistence of pathogenic organisms or their toxins in the blood.
17. Sub-Clinical Infection:
Infection during which clinical symptoms are not manifested.
