The collaborative efforts of over 150 experienced clinical microbiologists, medical laboratory technologists, and laboratory supervisors are included in the third edition of the Clinical Microbiology Procedures Handbook. This well-respected reference continues to serve as the sole major publication providing step-by-step protocols and descriptions that enable clinical microbiologists and laboratory staff personnel to perform all analyses, including appropriate quality control recommendations, from the receipt of the specimen through processing, testing, interpretation, presentation of the final report, and subsequent consultation. In response to the ever-changing needs and responsibilities of the clinical microbiology field, most sections of the third edition have been extensively reviewed and updated. To accommodate the expanding role of clinical microbiologists, the new edition places greater emphasis on areas such as molecular approaches, bioterrorism, safety, and epidemiology/infection control in medical facilities. Procedures are formatted to adhere to the GP02-5A (2006) document of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards/Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (NCCLS/CLSI). Procedures are divided into preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical considerations, with extensive discussion of each category. The icons in the margin of the text relate to safety recommendations, the use of standard precautions, a reminder for the user to record relevant reagent dates (receipt, opened, and expiration), as well as to reinforce quality control.