CHARLESTON, SC INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALISTS

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WHAT DOES AN INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST DO?

An infectious disease specialist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They are experts in the various parasites, bacteria, fungi and viruses that can attack the human body and spread to others.

The role of an infectious disease specialist is to review a patient’s medical data, including records, X-rays and laboratory reports. They may perform a physical examination, depending on the type of problem. Laboratory studies are often necessary and may include blood studies and cultures of wounds or body fluids. Infectious diseases specialists employ a variety of antimicrobial agents to help treat infections. The type of antimicrobial depends on the organism that is causing the infection. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections; antiviral agents treat viral infections; and antifungal agents treat fungal infections.

WHY WOULD I NEED TO SEE AN INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST?

You may need to see an infectious disease specialist if you have an infection that is difficult to diagnose, requires specialized treatment, or does not respond well to standard treatment. Some examples of infections that may require an infectious disease specialist are HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, Lyme disease, MRSA, C. diff, and COVID-19.

Other key reasons to visit an infectious disease specialist include an unexplained fever or wound, anticipated international travel, an autoimmune disease, and chronic illness such as HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C, which infectious disease doctors can now treat with a pill rather than an injection.

If you have any of these conditions or concerns, you should ask your primary care physician for a referral to an infectious disease specialist. They can work with your primary care physician to develop a treatment plan that will best help you recover from your infection.