While medical and hygienic developments have driven down the mortality rates of infectious diseases, pathogenic microorganisms are still a major factor in everyday clinical practice. They are still the most frequent cause of death in third world countries. New and incurable infectious diseases are a worldwide problem. It is, therefore, necessary for modern medicine to double its efforts to understand the relationship between microorganisms and humans and continue to lead the search for new therapies.

This book is structured in a comprehensible format. The numerous color illustrations and microscopic images render complex themes readily accessible. Summaries at the beginning of every chapter, a color-coded reference guide, and detailed diagnostic tables make this an excellent sourcebook for rapid learning and quick reference. A list of important internet addresses in the appendix will also help readers keep abreast of cutting-edge research.

This book is both a textbook for students of medicine and dentistry and a useful companion for medical technicians and laboratory assistants. It will also serve as a handy work of reference for clinical practitioners.