Antisepsis, Disinfection, and Sterilization: Types, Action, and Resistance

The book examines the various chemical and physical antisepsis, disinfection, and sterilization methods used for infection prevention and contamination control. Targeting microbiologists, chemists, facilities managers, health care professionals, infection and contamination control practitioners, application engineers, and students, Antisepsis, Disinfection, and Sterilization is a valuable reference written by an acknowledged expert working in the field.

The book provides descriptive background material covering the applications and various chemical and physical processes used for microbial control. An array of biocides is described, and the variables affecting their safe and effective use are detailed. The advantages, disadvantages, limitations, and correct applications of biocides and biocidal processes are discussed as well.

The mechanisms of biocidal action on microorganisms are investigated, including an examination of the less-studied intrinsic and acquired mechanisms of resistance in viruses, prions, protozoa, and fungi. Further considerations are given to the mechanisms on intrinsic and acquired resistance to biocides and biocidal processes, including cross-resistance to antibiotics in bacteria and novel mechanisms in extremophiles.

Key Features:

Presents a comprehensive review of the various chemical and physical antisepsis, disinfection, and sterilization methods, including types, practical uses, the spectrum of activity, advantages, disadvantages, and modes of action
Offers background information on microbiology, including a discussion of the spectrum of action, determination of efficacy, and common variables that affect the performance of antisepsis, disinfection, and sterilization methods
Covers the mechanisms of action of biocides in four general groups: oxidizing agents, cross-linking agents, action by transfer of energy, and other structure-disrupting agents
Explores the demonstrated natural and acquired mechanisms that microorganisms employ to resist the biocidal effects of chemical and physical processes

Publisher: American Society for Microbiology (ASM)

Author: Gerald E. McDonnell, STERIS Ltd., Basingstoke, United Kingdom

Pages: 378