[Immunomodulatory actions of antibiotics].

Introduction: Antimicrob drugs and immune system interaction has been studied since the pioneer works of Metchnikoff. After the introduction of antibiotics in clinical practice this area has attracted little attention of investigators, because of the lack of standards. This is the reason that the studying of the influence of antibiotics on immune system is still at its beginning.

[Influenza: a current medical problem].

Introduction: Acute respiratory infections are the most common infections in the human population. Among them, virus infections, especially those caused by influenza viruses, have an important place.

Type A Influenza: Type A influeza virus caused three epidemics during the last century.

[Diseases caused by viruses and toxins in biological warfare and bioterrorism].

Introduction: Viruses and toxins, as well as bacteria and rickettsia can potentially be used as biological weapons in conflicts or in bioterrorism.

Use Of Biological Weapons: The infection can be acquired by inhalation of aerosols, ingestion of contaminated food or water, or direct contact with the skin or mucosa. Special attention must be given to the possible use of genetically modified agents.

[Diseases caused by bacteria and rickettsia in biological warfare and bioterrorism].

Introduction: Until recently, the use of biological weapons was considered more from an academic than practical point of view. The list of agents and/or toxins that can be used as biological weapons is long. Some of them are highly lethal, while others cause morbidity and disability.

[Treatment options for chronic hepatitis C virus infection].

Introduction: The incidence of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is rather high. Its most frequent consequences are chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Treatment Of Chronic Hcv Infection: In treatment of chronic HCV infection, interferons have antiviral, anriproliferative, and immunoregulatory action.

[Effects of interferons on hepatitis C virus infection].

Introduction: The consequences of hepatitis C virus infections (chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma) are one of the major problems in clinical medicine. The persistence of infection in spite of high specific antibody titre suggests that the virus has the abillity to "escape" the immunological response.

Interferon Therapy: Interferons are important components of the early host response to infection.