Infectious diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, and are increasing in almost every nation, including the United States; they ranked third among the leading causes of death in the U.S. in 1992. Infectious diseases can be caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and other microbes such as fungus. They are part of everyday life, and range in severity from strep throat to AIDS. "Mims' Pathogenesis of Infectious Disease" has been the landmark book in the field. This revised edition provides an up-to-date picture of the global burden of infectious disease. It explains principles clearly and completely, using examples from various infections. It covers the mechanisms for spread of disease, immune response, and recovery, and is ideal as a course text for graduate and undergraduate students. The new features include: coverage of microbial gene sequencing; role of bacterial virulence factors in vivo; latest data on tuberculosis - the number one infectious disease worldwide; role of pathogenic cytokines; significance of toxins; and, an update on vaccines, prions, immune evasion, microbial ligands and receptors.