Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Methods and Protocols

In recent years, molecular techniques have enhanced our ability to detect sexually transmitted infections and to conduct research to further our und- standing of sexually transmitted diseases. Molecular methods to quantitate pathogen load have also been shown to be useful for the management of HIV and other viral STDs. Existing laboratory manuals for the clinical microbi- ogy laboratory often do not include molecular methods for STDs. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Methods and Protocols is intended to fill the need for a dedicated manual that covers all the fundamental aspects of molecular pro- cols for laboratory diagnosis, as well as research methodology for STDs, - cluding HIV. There are more than types of molecular techniques described in this book covering nine major sexually transmitted pathogens. Although mole- lar methods for the detection of such pathogens as Trichomonas vaginalis are available in the published literature, they have not been included since they are not yet widely used for laboratory diagnosis or research. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Methods and Protocols is one of a series of books treating Methods Molecular Medicine, published by Humana Press.

In Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Methods and Protocols, Rosanna Peeling and P. Frederick Sparling have created a comprehensive collection of cutting-edge molecular protocols for the laboratory diagnosis and study of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. The methods-each crafted by a leading expert for comprehensiveness and genuine laboratory utility-cover the major sexually transmitted pathogens, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Haemophilius ducreyl, Treponema pallidum, and herpes simplex. Additional molecular techniques are included for detecting the genital mycoplasmas, hepatitis B virus, HIV-1, human papillomavirus.

This book will significantly enhance our ability to detect sexually transmitted infections and to conduct research to further our understanding of sexually transmitted diseases. Eminently practical and up-to-date, Sexually Transmitted Disease Protocols provides a comprehensive collection of reliable molecular methods for STD diagnosis, research, and patient management.