Evaluation of the rapid decarboxylase and dihydrolase test for the differentiation of nonfermentative bacteria

J Clin Microbiol. 1976 Feb;3(2):137-42. doi: 10.1128/jcm.3.2.137-142.1976.

Abstract

A rapid medium for the detection of lysine and ornithine decarboxylase and arginine dihydrolase activity of 439 strains of gram-negative, nonfermenting bacteria was evaluated and compared with Moeller decarboxylase medium. Results were obtained in 4 to 24 h using the rapid medium, whereas Moeller medium often required extended (3 to 7 days) incubation. There was 100% agreement in the lysine tests with both media and almost 100% agreement in the ornithine tests. There was 91% agreement in the arginine tests, with the significance of discrepant results discussed. The sensitivity, specificity, and quick results obtained by the rapid test make it a suitable substitute for Moeller medium for the identication of gram-negative, nonfermenting bacteria.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Arginine / metabolism
  • Carboxy-Lyases / metabolism*
  • Culture Media*
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Fermentation
  • Hydrolases / metabolism*
  • Lysine / metabolism
  • Ornithine / metabolism
  • Ornithine Decarboxylase / metabolism*
  • Species Specificity

Substances

  • Culture Media
  • Arginine
  • Ornithine
  • Hydrolases
  • Carboxy-Lyases
  • Ornithine Decarboxylase
  • Lysine