Infectious Disease Care at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists

Common Infections We Treat

Our specialists manage a wide variety of infections, including:

• HIV and opportunistic infections – Comprehensive management of HIV and AIDS-related infections
• Bone and joint infections (osteomyelitis, septic arthritis) – Infections affecting bones, joints, or prosthetic implants
• Soft tissue and skin infections – Including diabetic wounds, cellulitis, and abscesses
• Fungal infections – Such as Valley Fever, aspergillosis, and histoplasmosis
• Bloodstream infections – Life-threatening infections, such as sepsis and endocarditis, that require urgent treatment
• Respiratory infections – Pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung abscesses
• Abdominal infections – Such as diverticulitis, peritonitis, and liver abscesses
• Neurological infections – Meningitis, encephalitis, brain abscesses, and ventriculitis
• Fever of unknown origin (FUO) – Evaluation of unexplained fevers that require expert investigation

Symptoms of Infectious Diseases

Symptoms vary widely depending on the type and location of the infection. Some infections progress slowly, while others worsen rapidly and require immediate care. Common symptoms of infections include:

• Fever and chills – A common sign of infection, sometimes with night sweats
• Fatigue and weakness – Can be a sign of a systemic infection
• Shortness of breath – May indicate a respiratory or bloodstream infection
• Persistent cough – Common in lung infections like tuberculosis or Valley Fever
• Skin changes – Redness, swelling, or warmth in soft tissue infections
• Swelling or pain in joints/bones – Possible osteomyelitis or septic arthritis
• Neurological symptoms – Headache, confusion, or seizures may suggest brain infections

If you experience persistent, worsening, or unusual symptoms, contact your primary care physician for evaluation.

Diagnosing Infectious Diseases

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At Arizona Pulmonary Specialists, we use advanced tools to identify infections and develop targeted treatment plans. Depending on the situation, we may utilize:

• Blood tests – To detect infections in the bloodstream (sepsis, endocarditis, HIV)
• Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound) – To locate lung, bone, or deep-tissue infections
• Microbiological cultures – Identifies bacteria, fungi, or viruses from blood, sputum, or tissue samples
• Biopsies – Tissue samples may be taken for definitive diagnosis of certain infections
• Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) – To diagnose meningitis and other brain infections
• Bronchoscopy – Direct examination of the airways to diagnose lung infections

Infectious Disease Treatment

Treatment varies based on the type and severity of the infection. Our specialists create customized treatment plans using the latest antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral, and immunotherapy options. Treatment approaches may include:

• Oral and IV antibiotics – Used for bacterial infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, and osteomyelitis
• Antifungal medications – Used for fungal infections like Valley Fever and histoplasmosis
• Antiviral therapy – For HIV, viral meningitis, and other viral infections
• Surgical intervention – Some infections, such as abscesses or joint infections, may require drainage or surgery
• Immunotherapy and preventative care – For chronic or immunocompromised patients

We work closely with primary care physicians, hospital teams, and other specialists to ensure seamless, coordinated care throughout treatment and recovery.

Why Choose Arizona Pulmonary Specialists?

• Expert specialists – In infectious disease, pulmonary care, and critical care medicine
• Advanced diagnostic tools – Cutting-edge imaging, lab testing, and molecular diagnostics
• Personalized treatment plans – Tailored to each patient’s condition and overall health
• Multidisciplinary approach – Close collaboration with primary care doctors, surgeons, and other specialists

Physicians Specializing in Infectious Diseases

Our team of infectious disease specialists, pulmonologists, and critical care experts is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care for complex infections.