High-throughput epidemiologic typing in clinical microbiology A. van Belkum  Clinical Microbiology and Infection  Volume 9, Issue 2, Pages 86-100 (February 2003) DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-0691.2003.00549.x Copyright © 2003 European Society of Clinical Infectious Diseases Terms and Conditions

Figure 1 Flow scheme highlighting the various microbial typing routes currently employed in the molecular—medical microbiology laboratory. The box on the left summarizes the most modern technological approach for the elucidation of nosocomial outbreaks of infectious diseases. Comparative typing of limited numbers of strains collected in a narrow time frame generates genetic signatures, usually visualized as banding pattern—based molecular fingerprints. The box on the right sketches the investigative route; the application of high—technology genomics and proteomics strategies allows for the collection of unprecedented volumes of genetic characteristics, usually for a limited number of strains only. The central route represents high—throughput microbial typing in its classical sense. Large numbers of geographically diverse microbial isolates are characterized with the help of standardized molecular technology. The major outcomes of these studies describe clonal complexes of pathogens that share certain genetic characteristics. Clinical Microbiology and Infection 2003 9, 86-100DOI: (10.1046/j.1469-0691.2003.00549.x) Copyright © 2003 European Society of Clinical Infectious Diseases Terms and Conditions