Cetrimide Agar (7222)
Intended Use
Cetrimide Agar is specifically designed for the isolation and identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogenic organism commonly found in clinical specimens.
Product Summary and Explanation
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is recognized as one of the most frequently isolated nonfermentative bacilli and is often associated with burn wounds and nosocomial infections. Its pathogenicity is largely attributed to its ability to secrete various extracellular enzymes that contribute to tissue damage.
This organism is notable for producing various water-soluble pigments. Among these, the bright yellow-green or yellow-brown fluorescent pigment pyoverdin (fluorescein) stands out. When pyoverdin interacts with the blue pigment pyocyanin, it forms the vibrant green coloration that is characteristic of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Cetrimide Agar has proven to be an effective medium for isolating this organism from contaminated specimens.
The formulation of Cetrimide Agar is based on the Medium A (Tech Agar) developed by King, Ward, and Raney to enhance pyocyanin production in Pseudomonas species. The inclusion of Cetrimide in this agar enhances its selectivity for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, Cetrimide Agar is recommended for microbiological examinations of food, serving as a reliable medium for Microbial Limit Testing as per the United States Pharmacopeia (USP XXIII).
Key Features and Specifications
- Medium Type: Cetrimide Agar
- Use: Isolation and identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Applications: Clinical specimens, Food examination, Microbial Limit Test
- Color Indicators: Green pigmentation due to pyocyanin and pyoverdin
- Prepared According to: Tech Agar formula with Cetrimide added
