EMB AGAR, LEVINE (as per USP)

Description

Levine Eosin Methylene Blue Agar Medium was developed by Levine and is used for the differentiation of Escherichia coli and Enterobacter aerogenes and also for the rapid identification of Candida albicans. This medium is recommended for the detection, enumeration and differentiation of members of the coliform group by American Public Health Association and United States Pharmacopoeia. Weld proposed the use of Levine EMB Agar, with added Chlortetracycline hydrochloride, for the rapid identification of Candida albicans in clinical specimens. Some gram-positive bacteria such as faecal Streptococci, yeasts grow on this medium and form pinpoint colonies A positive identification of Candida albicans can be made after 24-48 hours incubation at 35-37?C in 10% carbon dioxide atmosphere, from specimens such as faeces, oral and vaginal secretions and nail or skin scraping etc.