nonbacterial

Nonbacterial is a descriptive term used to denote organisms, cells, or infectious agents that are not bacteria. It is used in medical and scientific contexts to distinguish nonbacterial diseases and diagnostics from those caused by bacteria. The term does not refer to a formal taxonomic group; rather, it encompasses a broad range of life forms and agents, including viruses, fungi, protozoa, helminths, prions, and other nonbacterial pathogens or particles.

In clinical practice, nonbacterial infections are diagnosed with methods distinct from bacterial culture and often require different therapies. Viruses are treated with antivirals or supportive care; fungi with antifungals; protozoa and helminths with antiparasitic drugs. Prions pose unique challenges and currently lack curative treatments; management focuses on symptom relief and prevention of transmission. Diagnostic tools include PCR, serology, microscopy, and imaging.

Public health and medicine emphasize judicious use of antimicrobials. Antibiotics are ineffective against nonbacterial pathogens and inappropriate use promotes resistance. Vaccines, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic drugs play central roles in preventing and treating nonbacterial infections.

Examples of nonbacterial infections include influenza (virus), candidiasis (fungus), malaria (protozoan), and giardiasis (protozoan).