Nonculture methods for detection and identification of microorganisms in clinical specimens

The pressures of cost reduction and clinical relevancy that led to the conception and introduction of direct detection tests continue to influence the course of modern microbiology. A significant amount of progress has been made in the past few years in the refinement of these tests. Some of the procedures that have been developed have been disappointing in their true clinical utility. Others seem to be a genuine advance in technique. Unquestionably, these methods will continue to be developed and will have a significant impact on the way laboratory testing is performed and, we hope, the cost of laboratory work and the quality of care given to patients.