Focal infection

Focal Infection

A Focal Infection is a localized infection that causes systemic effects in different parts of the body. It is a medical concept that originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, suggesting that a local infection can cause a wide range of chronic diseases.

History

The concept of focal infection was first proposed by William Hunter in 1900. He suggested that many systemic diseases were due to chronic, low-grade, focal infections in the tonsils, sinuses, and particularly, the teeth. This theory was widely accepted and influenced medical and dental practice in the first half of the 20th century.

Concept

The focal infection theory posits that localized infections can disseminate to other parts of the body, causing systemic disease. This can occur through direct extension, lymphatic spread, or hematogenous dissemination. The most common sites of focal infections include the teeth (dental abscess), tonsils (tonsillitis), and sinuses (sinusitis).

Clinical Implications

Focal infections can lead to a variety of systemic diseases, including rheumatic fever, endocarditis, and arthritis. They can also cause non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, malaise, and fever. Treatment of the focal infection often results in resolution of the systemic disease.

Controversy and Current Understanding

The concept of focal infection fell out of favor in the mid-20th century due to lack of scientific evidence. However, recent research has revived interest in the theory, particularly in relation to oral health and systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

See Also

• Infection
• Systemic disease
• Oral health

References

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