Book excerpt: The completely revised and updated New Edition of this respected resource presents globally-relevant coverage of all types of antimicrobial agents used in human medicine, providing authoritative guidance on the principles and practice of antimicrobial chemotherapy. In addition to full coverage of every commonly used antibiotic agent, it includes complete coverage of all antiviral, antiprotozoan and anthelminthic agents. And, its unique 3-part structure makes it easy to locate information: Part I covers general aspects of treatment; Part II reviews every agent, including antimicrobial activity, pharmacokinetics, clinical use, and available preparations; Part III details the treatment of particular infections. Discusses the increasing problem of multi-drug resistance and the wide range of new antiviral therapies now available for the treatment of HIV and other viral infections. Reviews all of the new antimicrobial agents in detail. Features more clinically focused sections on Pharmacokinetics. Details new antifungal therapies, including voriconazole, liposomal, and amphotericin B. Presents new tables on major drug interactions, placental transfer, and concentrations of agents in breast milk. Features new sections on liver failure, drug development and licensing, and the implications of xenotransplantation. Presents expanded coverage of Quinolone as well as new antimalarial combination therapies. Offers cross-references to key web sites, for up-to-date information on treatment and drug resistance.