Infectious diseases are a frequent reason for medical consultations both in the inpatient and outpatient setting. Inadequate management is associated with increased costs, morbidity and mortality. In times of rising antibiotic resistance rational therapy and antimicrobial stewardship are of utmost importance. While it is crucial to avoid excessively broad antimicrobial coverage and unnecessary therapies, serious conditions must be treated effectively. The article highlights common infections and gives recommendations for empiric and targeted antibiotic treatment. Discussed are pulmonary, abdominal, urinary tract, skin and soft tissue infections, as well as sepsis and staphylococcal bloodstream infections. The recommendations consider national and international guidelines, recent publications and current antimicrobial resistance in Germany.
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