Infectious Diseases Exam Review: Diagnosis & Treatment for Physician Assistants

Infectious Diseases Exam Review: Diagnosis & Treatment for Physician Assistants

Book cover for A Comprehensive Review for the Certification and Recertification Examinations for Physician Assistants

Prepare for your physician assistant certification exam with this thorough review of infectious diseases from A Comprehensive Review for the Certification and Recertification Examinations for Physician Assistants by Claire Babcock O'Connell and Thea Cogan-Drew. This summary covers critical infections including bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic, sexually transmitted, and tick-borne illnesses, emphasizing diagnosis, clinical features, and management strategies.

Watch the podcast summary above and subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for more high-yield clinical reviews and PA exam prep.

Fever and Sepsis

  • Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO): Temperature >101.8°F for 3 weeks without clear cause; evaluate with labs, cultures, and imaging.
  • Sepsis and SIRS: Symptomatic bacteremia with high mortality; treat with broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and supportive care.

Bacterial Infections

  • Streptococcal Infections: Includes pharyngitis, scarlet fever, cellulitis, necrotizing fasciitis; treat with penicillin or alternatives.
  • Anthrax, Cholera, Tetanus, Botulism: Bioterrorism-relevant pathogens; require specific antitoxins and supportive therapy.
  • GI Bacterial Infections: Salmonellosis, Shigellosis, Pertussis, etc.; focus on hydration and appropriate antibiotics.

Viral Infections

  • EBV, HPV, HSV: Clinical presentations from mononucleosis to genital lesions; managed supportively or with antivirals.
  • Influenza, Varicella-Zoster, Rabies: Prevention via vaccines; treatment includes antivirals and symptomatic care.
  • HIV/AIDS: Immunodeficiency with opportunistic infections; managed with ART and prophylaxis.

Fungal Infections

  • Candidiasis, Histoplasmosis, Cryptococcosis, PJP: Often affect immunocompromised; treat with antifungals like fluconazole or amphotericin B.

Parasitic Infections

  • Amebiasis, Hookworms, Pinworms, Malaria: Diagnosed via stool or blood tests; treated with antiparasitics such as metronidazole and antimalarials.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

  • Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis: Present with ulcers or discharge; diagnosed by cultures and PCR; treated with penicillin, azithromycin.

Tick-Borne Illnesses

  • Lyme Disease & RMSF: Characteristic rashes and systemic symptoms; treated with doxycycline or amoxicillin.

Glossary of Key Terms

  • Bacteremia: Presence of bacteria in the bloodstream.
  • Antipyretic: Medication to reduce fever.
  • Cytokines: Immune proteins mediating inflammation.
  • SIRS: Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome.
  • Septicemia: Presence of pathogens or toxins in blood causing severe illness.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Infectious Disease Exam Prep

Mastering the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases—including bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic, sexually transmitted, and tick-borne infections—is essential for physician assistant exam success and clinical practice. Focus on high-yield pathogens, diagnostic strategies, and evidence-based treatments.

For a detailed review, watch the podcast summary and visit Last Minute Lecture for more comprehensive PA study guides.

If you found this guide helpful, subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for more chapter-by-chapter summaries and exam prep resources for physician assistants.

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