Clinical microbiology examines the relevancy of microbes isolated from patient’s specimens as potential agents of infection and determines antimicrobial solutions for treatment. In this course students will build on the concepts and laboratory techniques developed in MICB1206 required to process clinical microbiological specimens. Emphasis on recognition of microbial cellular and colonial morphology, physiological characteristics, growth requirements, and key tests used for differentiation and identification of clinically relevant bacteria will continue. Students will also explore identification of clinically relevant fungi and parasites. Theory, interpretation, and correlation of direct smears to culture results will be practiced, including N-score. The connection between specific body sites and specimen types will be examined as a key element in determining the appropriate specimen workup as well as determining organism pathogenicity. Laboratory exercises will provide practical experience, complementing the theoretical components.