Practical Guide to Diagnostic Parasitology (ASM Books Book 141)

In the 21st century, the field of diagnostic medical parasitology continues to see dramatic changes, including newly recognized pathogens and the changing endemicity and classification of familiar organisms; neglected tropical diseases and the impact of global climate change; and new methodologies and risk management issues. This classic clinical laboratory parasitology reference, now in its third edition, has been extensively revised and updated in a new full-color format. Still organized to provide maximum help to the user, particularly from the bench perspective, every section has been expanded with new images and discussion.

Specimen collection, preservation, and testing options are thoroughly discussed, from the routine ova and parasite examination to blood films, fecal immunoassays, and the newer molecular test panels. Specific test procedures, laboratory methods and reagents, and algorithms are provided. The ever-helpful “FAQ” section of commonly asked questions now offers expanded information on stool specimen fixatives and testing, thorough coverage of new techniques, and advice on reporting and commenting on results.

The heart of the Guide, covering the identification of individual pathogens, has been expanded with more discussion and comparison of organisms and dozens of new color images. An entirely new section has been added that uses extensive figures and new tables to illustrate common problems with differentiating organisms from one another and possible microscopic artifacts. The final section has been reorganized to include identification keys and dozens of tables summarizing organism characteristics to assist the bench microbiologist with routine diagnostic testing methods.