Completely revised and updated, the Fifth Edition reflects a wealth of new findings. Readers will learn to identify microbial agents associated with infectious disease and the microbes that cause disease, and will understand the biochemical and metabolic pathways that serve as a basis for identification. Organized by microorganism, the text covers taxonomy, classification, identification, speciation, and the roles of all major microorganisms as agents in disease. Easy-to-read charts outline theory, procedures and interpretations of tests. New in the Fifth Edition: New bacterial physiology chapter / Clinical correlation boxes / Boxes highlighting essential information / New second color, 100 new illustrations showing pathogenic mechanisms, life cycles of parasites and more!