[Appropriate microbiological diagnostics].

In the industrialized world the threat of infectious diseases is mainly due to nosocomial infections and multi-resistant agents. In this context, microbiological evaluations have not only a benefit for the individual patient, but also allow to evaluate the local epidemiologic situation. However, quality and benefits are often compromised by incorrect specimen collection. This review attempts to summarize diagnostic procedures, collection and transport of appropriate specimens and relevant causative agents for prominent clinical manifestations of infectious diseases.