Microbiology
What is microbiology?
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms--specifically, disease-causing microorganisms. Microbiology is responsible for identifying infectious agents in blood, urine, sputum, feces, cerebrospinal fluid, and other body fluids. The infectious agents are then tested for sensitivity to certain antibiotics used to treat infections.
Microbiology uses various techniques to identify microorganisms, including the following:
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Chemical, immunological, and genetic tests
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Examination under a microscope
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Staining
Microorganisms can include the following:
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Bacteria
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Fungi
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Parasites
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Viruses
Common microbiology tests
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Tests
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Uses
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Blood culture
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Can diagnose bacterial infections of the blood
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Culture and sensitivity of burns and wounds
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Can identify disease-causing organisms and test for effectiveness of antibiotics
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Sputum culture
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Can identify lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia
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Stool culture
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Can identify parasites that cause disease, such as pinworms
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Urine culture
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Can identify disease-causing organisms in the kidneys and urinary tract
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