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Immunology and Infectious Disease pp 1–18Cite as

Host Microbicidal Actions of the Innate Immune Response

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Part of the book series: Molecular and Cellular Biology of Critical Care Medicine ((MCCM,volume 3))

Abstract

The human body is constantly under assault by potential microbial pathogens. In addition to the enormous numbers of micro-organisms that we ingest, inhale, aspirate, and come in direct contact with on a daily basis, the average human has 1014 (one hundred trillion) micro-organisms in the alimentary tract and on epithelial surfaces throughout the body (1). Transient bacteremia is a frequent event from oral microbial flora or skin flora following minor trauma to these areas (e.g. 25% incidence of bacteremia with brushing teeth) (2). A multitude of fungal spores are inhaled on a daily basis and humans are repeatedly exposed to potentially pathogenic respiratory viruses in the environment. Our very existence is absolutely dependent upon an ever vigilant and efficient antimicrobial defense system. In this introductory chapter, we will review the fundamental elements of the host defense system and describe the basic strategies employed against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Brown University School of Medicine, 02903, Providence, Rhode Island, USA

    Steven M. Opal M.D. & Richard L. Yap M.D.

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  1. Steven M. Opal M.D.
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  2. Richard L. Yap M.D.
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA

    Lesley A. Doughty M.D.

  2. Critical Care Medicine/Infectious Disease, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

    Peter Linden M.D.

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Opal, S.M., Yap, R.L. (2003). Host Microbicidal Actions of the Innate Immune Response. In: Doughty, L.A., Linden, P. (eds) Immunology and Infectious Disease. Molecular and Cellular Biology of Critical Care Medicine, vol 3. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-0245-6_1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-0245-6_1

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