Infectious Disease
The Infectious Disease team is made up of highly trained Physicians specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of complex infections. While staying at the forefront of medical advances, our goal is to accurately identify infectious processes, treat them effectively, and improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
What is Infectious Disease?
Infectious Disease is the medical specialty focused on diagnosing and managing illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These conditions can range from common infections to rare, complex, or life-threatening diseases.
What Types of Infections Do Infectious Disease Specialists Treat?
Infectious Disease specialists manage a wide range of conditions, including:
- Bacterial infections (e.g., pneumonia, sepsis)
- Viral infections (e.g., influenza, hepatitis, HIV)
- Fungal infections
- Parasitic infections
- Chronic or recurrent infections
- Post-surgical or hospital-acquired infections
They also play a critical role in managing infections that do not respond to standard treatments.
When Should You See an Infectious Disease Specialist?
You may be referred to an Infectious Disease specialist if you experience:
- Persistent or unexplained fever
- Recurrent infections
- Infections not improving with standard treatment
- Complex conditions such as HIV or hepatitis
- Exposure to rare or travel-related diseases
Early evaluation can lead to faster diagnosis and more effective treatment.
What Causes Infectious Diseases?
Infectious diseases are caused by microorganisms that invade the body and multiply. These include:
- Bacteria – Can cause infections such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia
- Viruses – Responsible for illnesses like COVID-19, influenza, and hepatitis
- Fungi – Often affect the lungs, skin, or immune-compromised patients
- Parasites – Can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or insect bites
Transmission can occur through direct contact, airborne particles, contaminated surfaces, or bodily fluids.
What Tests Do Infectious Disease Specialists Perform?
To determine the cause of infection, your provider may order:
- Blood tests and cultures
- Imaging studies (X-ray, CT, MRI)
- Urine or stool testing
- Molecular and PCR testing
- Sensitivity testing to guide antibiotic therapy
These tests help identify the exact organism and the most effective treatment.
What Should I Bring to My First Visit?
Please prepare the following for your appointment:
- Previous lab and imaging results
- Hospital discharge summaries (if applicable)
- Current medication list with dosages
- Allergy information
- Travel history (if relevant)
- Vaccination records
Meet Our Infectious Disease Providers
-
Nishka Umesh Shetty, MD – Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Infectious Disease
-
Diana Cardenas, MD – Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Infectious Disease
These providers deliver compassionate, expert care tailored to each patient’s condition.
A Word from Our Infectious Disease Team
At Kymera Independent Physicians, we are committed to delivering advanced, compassionate care. Infectious diseases can be complex and sometimes difficult to diagnose, but our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
With years of experience serving Southeastern New Mexico, we provide timely, accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans to help you recover and maintain your health.
If you suspect an infection or have been referred for specialized care, we encourage you to seek evaluation promptly—the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.
Meet Our Infectious Disease Specialists
Roswell
Nishka Shetty, MD
Roswell
Diana Cardenas, MD
What Conditions Do Infectious Disease Specialists Treat?
Our team treats a broad spectrum of infectious conditions, including:
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis (A, B, C)
- Tuberculosis
- Bone and joint infections
- Endocarditis
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Travel-related infections
- Opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients
- Fever of unknown origin
