Section 2 : Indigenous and Pathogenic Microbes of Humans

Abstract:

The relationship between humans and microbes can be defined in one of three ways: 1) transient colonization, 2) persistent colonization, 3) or pathogenic infection. The majority of organisms are unable to establish permanent colonization/infection on the skin or mucosal surfaces and are considered an insignificant finding when recovered in clinical specimens. Examples include the molds and many of the nonfermentative Gram-negative bacilli that can be isolated in soil, vegetation, water, and food products. These organisms are unable to compete with the normal microbial population of the body or cannot survive on the skin surface.