In the United States, infectious diseases now rank third among the leading causes of death according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Problems associated with antimicrobial resistance are increasing nationally and internationally. This fourth edition includes new information on emerging infections (e.g., ehrlichiosis, E. coli 0157: H7, Helicobacter pylori), the hepatitis A vaccine, and deep neck infections, as well as a concise update on HIV, a discussion of problems of antimicrobial resistance, and an extensive review of antibiotics, including new agents. A Practical Approach to Infectious Diseases is written in an outline format that provides quick pathways from symptoms to sources of infection. The contributors - drawn from the ranks of outstanding clinicians and academics - outline steps toward diagnosis and make recommendations from their years of clinical experience for treating common and uncommon diseases.