THE MAIN DIFFERENCES IN MICROBIAL GROWTH BETWEEN FUNGI AND BACTERIA AND THEIR IMPACTS ON THE PROGRESSION OF MICROBIAL INFECTION, A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Fungi and bacteria represent two of the main groups of microorganisms associated with human infections, exhibiting fundamental differences in their cellular organization, metabolism, growth dynamics, and interactions with the host. These distinctions directly influence the establishment, progression, and severity of microbial infections, as well as the response to therapeutic treatment. While bacteria are generally characterized by rapid growth, high metabolic adaptability, and a wide diversity of virulence strategies, fungi exhibit slower growth, greater cellular complexity, and an enhanced ability to persist within host tissues. This narrative review aims to integratively discuss the main differences in microbial growth patterns between fungi and bacteria and how these characteristics impact the progression of microbial infection, addressing relevant cellular, physiological, environmental, and immunological aspects related to pathogenesis and clinical management.