Infection - Classification

Classification

Infections are classified by the causative agent as well as the symptoms and medical signs produced.

Symptomatic infections are apparent, whereas an infection that is active, but does not produce noticeable symptoms, may be called inapparent, silent, or subclinical. An infection that is inactive or dormant is called a latent infection.

A short-term infection is an acute infection. A long-term infection is a chronic infection.