<p><strong><em>The book is structured with classroom learning in mind.</em></strong></p><p>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 inescapable, therefore, that modern medicine must redouble its efforts to understand the relationship between microorganisms and humans and continue to lead the search for new therapies.</p><p>The following five subject areas are covered: Immunology, Bacteriology, Mycology, Virology, Parasitology. This book provides a clearly focused and richly detailed review of the entire field of medical microbiology. It is both a textbook for students of medicine and dentistry and a useful companion for medical technicians and laboratory assistants, both at school and in the laboratory. It will also serve as a handy work of reference for clinical practitioners. The book is structured with teachability in mind: The many 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 help the book's users keep abreast of cutting-edge research.</p>