Which type of antimicrobial specifically targets a limited range of bacterial pathogens?

A narrow-spectrum antimicrobial specifically targets a limited range of bacterial pathogens by inhibiting or killing specific types of bacteria, rather than affecting a broad array of microbial species. This targeted approach is particularly useful when the causative agent of an infection is known, as it minimizes disruption to the patient's normal flora and helps to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

In contrast, broad-spectrum antimicrobials are effective against a wide variety of bacteria, which can be beneficial in situations where the specific pathogen has not yet been identified, but they can also lead to more significant side effects and impact the body’s natural microbiome. Antiviral medications and antifungal medications are designed to target viruses and fungi, respectively, and do not directly target bacterial pathogens. Therefore, the specificity of narrow-spectrum antimicrobials makes them a crucial tool in the treatment of bacterial infections, particularly when the pathogens involved are known and can be isolated.