Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

Acute infections are characterized by a rapid onset and typically a short duration. They often present with symptoms similar to those of the common cold, such as fever, cough, and body aches. Acute infections are caused by pathogens that multiply quickly within the body, leading to an abrupt manifestation of symptoms.

In contrast, chronic infections persist over a longer period and can last for years, presenting ongoing symptoms or alternating periods of exacerbation and remission. Latent infections involve periods of inactivity where the pathogen is not actively causing symptoms but can reactivate in the future. Superficial infections usually affect only the outermost layers of skin or mucous membranes and may not necessarily present with the systemic symptoms typical of acute infections.

Thus, the distinguishing feature of acute infections, with their quick onset and short duration, aligns perfectly with the symptoms associated with the common cold.