[Risk of infection in endoscopy]

Infection is one of the hazards of endoscopic procedures. This long known risk has received major concern because of potential HIV infection. In the individual patient, both, patient related factors (such as the compromised host) and procedure related factors (such as tissue damage) determine the risk of infection. The potential for transmission of microorganisms from patient to patient or from the endoscopic equipment to the patient is reviewed. Common sources of infection and relevant microorganisms are listed. For prevention of transfer of infective agents through the contaminated endoscope the importance of thorough mechanical cleaning of the endoscope and adequate disinfection is stressed.