Infection
Invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissue.
Infection is the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissue, triggering a local and sometimes systemic response. The cardinal signs are redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and drainage at the site, with fever and an elevated white blood cell count systemically. Older adults may not mount a fever, so new confusion or functional decline can be the only sign of infection.
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