In recent years, molecular techniques have enhanced our ability to detect sexually transmitted infections and to conduct research to further our und- standing of sexually transmitted diseases. Molecular methods to quantitate pathogen load have also been shown to be useful for the management of HIV and other viral STDs. Existing laboratory manuals for the clinical microbi- ogy laboratory often do not include molecular methods for STDs. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Methods and Protocols is intended to fill the need for a dedicated manual that covers all the fundamental aspects of molecular pro- cols for laboratory diagnosis, as well as research methodology for STDs, – cluding HIV. There are more than types of molecular techniques described in this book covering nine major sexually transmitted pathogens. Although mole- lar methods for the detection of such pathogens as Trichomonas vaginalis are available in the published literature, they have not been included since they are not yet widely used for laboratory diagnosis or research. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Methods and Protocols is one of a series of books treating Methods Molecular Medicine, published by Humana Press.