This well illustrated text provides the basic and applied microbiology knowledge that readers need to know to prepare for a career in the health sciences. Assuming no prior knowledge of biology and chemistry it teaches the student the principles of this important subject, addressing the fundamentals of biology and chemistry. It also contains a brief anatomy review which helps students to understand the relationship between microbiology and the human body.

• Organizes chapters first by general concepts and then by specific topics.

Covers up-to-date topics, including emerging diseases, viral-load testing in AIDS, and the role of PCR in diagnostic microbiology.

• Provides a multitude of learning tools, including chapter outlines, learning objectives, and a glossary.

Presents Micro Checks and Understanding Microbiology questions to measure mastery and to help readers evaluate their understanding of the material in small increments.

• Applies science to life situations with case studies in the infectious disease chapters.

Measures comprehension and mastery with Applying Microbiology questions that help readers develop their critical thinking skills.

• Features over 450 photographs and illustrations, including a full-colour insert of more than 75 photomicrographs.

Includes web site sources for further study and research.