Abstract

AAVM conferences have emerged as one of the leading meetings in the field of antimicrobial agents in veterinary medicine, providing an intensive program and encouraging communication among attendees. Antimicrobial drugs continue to be critical in veterinary therapy and prophylaxis as they have been for the last 60 years. However, the use of antimicrobial drugs in veterinary medicine has been increasingly scrutinized for its potential role as a human health hazard especially in resistance formation in problem bacteria. Resistance to antimicrobials is also an increasingly important issue in veterinary therapy both in farm animals as well as in pets. A multitude of theories concerning resistance transfer from farm animals to humans have been suggested and countrywide data banks have been created to monitor the situation. Clearly all aspects of resistance will be among the leading topics in the forthcoming conference.From the therapeutic point of view, correct planning of therapy has an essential role for efficacy, residues and resistance formation. Pharmacokinetics has been identified as one of the key elements in dealing with these concerns. Similarly pharmacokinetics are crucial in estimating potential public health hazards in a scientifically sustainable way. Hence, pharmacokinetics and the analytical techniques essential to support it are in the forefront of the conference program.