Читать книгу Antisepsis, Disinfection, and Sterilization - Gerald E. McDonnell - Страница 16

Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms, which include multicellular forms (helminths), unicellular forms (classified as eukaryotes and prokaryotes), and noncellular forms (e.g., viruses) (Table 1.1).

Microorganisms play a large part in our daily lives, both for our benefit and to our detriment (Table 1.2). The use of antiseptics, disinfectants, and sterilization methods is essential for control of the growth, multiplication, and transfer of microorganisms. Of particular concern are pathogenic, or disease-causing, organisms that can cause a variety of infections and stresses in humans, plants, and animals. A further consideration is the control of product contamination or spoilage, including that of foodstuffs and pharmaceutical drugs, which can have significant commercial consequences.