Bacterial interference in upper respiratory tract infections

Bacterial antagonism and synergism help maintain the balance of the normal endogenous nora. The production of bacteriocins by some micro-organisms is one of the important mechanisms of interference. The role of bacterial inte rference in upper respiratory tract infections and the effect of this pheno menon on the eradication of infection is detailed. The infections discussed include pharyngotonsillitis, otitis media and sinusitis. The effects of an timicrobial agents on organisms causing these conditions and interactions b etween pathogens and other bacteria are also described. (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.