Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a worldwide problem affecting all nations and races. Such diseases are especially prevalent in developing countries where insufficient health care centers, inadequate laboratory capabilities, and the unavailablity of appropriate treatment perpetuate the problem. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Epidemiology, Pathology, Diagnosis, and Treatment addresses the therapeutic challenges posed by STDs. It covers bacterial, spirochete, fungal, protozoan, viral, and ectoparasite infections. Strategies and progress in eliminating these diseases worldwide are discussed.

There is much that we know about infectious diseases antibiotic resistance bacteria, influenza outbreaks, E. coli food epidemics and hospital spread of C. difficile.No of this would exist if the diagnosis had not been made by speedy, accurate clinical laboratories.At the same time false positive and false negative results cause delay and cause harm. This book will explore how the microbiology laboratory contributes to patient safety and community care.An essential component of this discussion are the causes and impact of laboratory errors impact on patients, their families, and the communities in which they live, and importantly how laboratories can address, correct, and prevent these errors.