Dermatophyte Test Medium (7265)

Intended Use: Dermatophyte Test Medium is specifically formulated for the selective isolation and identification of dermatophytic fungi.

Product Summary and Explanation

Developed in 1969 by Taplin et al., Dermatophyte Test Medium has become the standard for isolating and recognizing dermatophytic fungi, the primary culprits behind conditions such as ringworm affecting hair, nails, and skin. This medium is particularly effective for the isolation and preliminary recognition of the genera Microsporum, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton due to its innovative color change feature.

Key Features:

• Color Change Indicator: Rapidly-growing dermatophytes can induce a complete transition in the medium's color within just 3 days, making early identification straightforward. Slower-growing species will take longer but will still alter the medium’s appearance for recognition.
• Selective Growth: While other organisms might grow on the medium, the lack of color change helps differentiate non-dermatophyte species. Furthermore, some saprophytic fungi, yeasts, and bacteria can shift the color from red to yellow but can be easily identified by their unique colonial morphology.

Specifications:

Applications:

This medium is extensively used in clinical microbiology laboratories for the investigation of fungal infections, particularly those caused by dermatophytes. It provides an essential tool for dermatologists and healthcare professionals, enabling quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.