COLUMBIA BLOOD AGAR BASE (ISO 10272-2:2017)

Description

Campylobacter are carried in the intestinal tract of animal and therefore contaminate foods of animal origin. Campylobacter causes intestinal upset or abortion in animals. It is also one of the most important causes of human gastroenteritis, particularly in children. Columbia Blood Agar Base was devised by Ellner et al and recommended by the ISO Committee is used for selective isolation of Campylobacter species. This medium contains peptone which supports rapid and luxuriant growth of fastidious and non-fastidious organisms. Also, this medium promotes typical colonial morphology; better pigment production and more sharply defined haemolytic reactions. However, it is devoid of V factor (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and hence Haemophilus influenzae which needs both the X and V factors, will not grow on this medium. As this medium have a relatively high carbohydrate content, beta-haemolytic Streptococci may exhibit a greenish haemolytic reaction which may be mistaken for the alpha haemolysis. Carry out confirmatory tests of all the colonies.