Based on an extensive literature search, the present overview discusses the economic relevant diseases of Siluroidei, cultured for human consumption. One herpes virus and two irido viruses play a significant role for channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), sheatfish (Silurus glanis ) and yellow bullhead (1. melas )culture, respectively. There is only one fish species-specific bacterial disease which has an economic impact in the catfish industry: Edwardsiella ictaluri. Secondary infections with opportunistic bacteria and fungi are of interest in all catfish species cultured both under intensive and extensive circumstances. Etiology, pathology, prevention and treatment are shortly discussed for all diseases. Also some diseases of unknown etiology, which occur in African (Clarias gariepinus ) and Asian (C. batrachus ) catfish, are described.