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Abstract

An improved diagnostic test that enables reliable detection of pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria by enhancing hemolytic zones on blood agar plates is presented. 

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Background

Gram-positive bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus suis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Clostridium perfringens, Listeria monocytogenes, Bacillus cereus, Bacilllus anthracis, and Clostridium tetani are significant pathogens of both animals and humans. 

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Problem

Reliable detection of hemolytic activity is a cornerstone for diagnosis of the pathogenic properties of these bacteria in samples from human, animal, food, and environmental sources.

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Solution

The enhancing substance is mixed with sterile blood and subsequently added into the agar base to make blood agar plates. Samples from various sources are simply plated on blood agar containing the hemolysin-enhancing additive. Clear and reproducible zones of hemolysis are obtained following incubation, additional testing is avoided, and life-saving and/or safety measures can be implemented appropriately.

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Advantages

Addition of an active substance to the blood agar either before or even after the casting of the finalized plates, enhances detection of hemolytic zones around bacteria, thereby saving on further tests and otherwise extended incubation times using current diagnostic tests.

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Scope of application

The novel test is relevant for laboratories providing diagnostic services in clinical and veterinary microbiology as well as for laboratories involved in hygiene, food, and environmental safety surveillance.