title: Microbiologic studies.
abstract: Although useful to emergency physicians in determining and following up treatment, the microbiology department can be a source of frustration and erroneous results due to improper or inconsistent methodology, ordering, and interpretation. This article will review the principles of microbiologic specimen collection, handling, and processing as well as noting specific techniques for selected clinical settings.
mesh_terms: D001431:Bacteriological Techniques / Q000191:economics; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000382:microbiology; D004630:Emergencies; D005243:Feces / Q000382:microbiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010612:Pharyngitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology*; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology*; D018805:Sepsis / Q000175:diagnosis; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology; D013183:Sputum / Q000382:microbiology; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology; D014627:Vaginitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology