The Division of Infectious Diseases uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify acute or chronic viral and bacterial diseases, so that effective treatment can be instituted as quickly as possible.

The division serves infants, children and teenagers with tuberculosis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, Kawasaki's disease, recurrent sinopulmonary infections, as well as tropical diseases such as malaria and gastrointestinal parasites. The division also works closely with the hospital's hematology and bone marrow divisions to assist immunocompromised children who suffer from multiple episodes of infection.

Developed in collaboration with the Department of Laboratory Medicine, the division's Virology Diagnostic Center uses enzyme immunoassays, immunofluorescence and cell culture systems for rapid diagnosis of many common illnesses, including Epstein Barr, CMV, and the herpes virus. Serology tests are also used to detect congenital infections and childhood infections.

The doctors of the Infectious Disease department are:

Otto M. Ramos, M.D.
Director, Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Director, Virus Laboratory

Marcelo Laufer, MD

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call (305) 662-8378.