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Use of anaerobic culture for the improved isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae
Abstract:
The following report compares the results of aerobic and anaerobic cultivation for the primary isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) from the respiratory tract of children. Of 414 specimens of respiratory tract secretions cultured, 65 (15-7%) yielded pneumococci; 31 (47-7%) grew both aerobically and anaerobically, but 34 (52-3%) strains were isolated only from the anaerobic culture. Pneumococci cultured anaerobically with added carbon dioxide characteristically produce large mucoid colonies which are more easily distinguished than the 'normal' colonies commonly seen in the mixed flora isolated from respiratory sites. This advantage justifies the inclusion of anaerobic culture when attempting to isolate Str. pneumoniae from clinical material.
Insights
Anaerobic culture significantly improves the isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) from children's respiratory samples. This method yields more positive results than aerobic culture alone, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a common respiratory pathogen in children.
- Accurate isolation of pneumococci is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
- Traditional aerobic culture methods may not be optimal for pneumococcal detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of aerobic versus anaerobic cultivation for the primary isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae from pediatric respiratory specimens.
- To determine if anaerobic culture offers an advantage in detecting pneumococci.
Main Methods:
- Culturing of 414 respiratory tract secretion specimens from children.
- Comparison of bacterial growth under aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
- Identification of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates.
Main Results:
- Pneumococci were isolated from 15.7% (65/414) of specimens.
- Anaerobic culture alone yielded 52.3% of the positive strains.
- Combined aerobic and anaerobic culture identified 47.7% of the positive strains.
- Anaerobic cultures with added carbon dioxide produced larger, more distinguishable mucoid colonies.
Conclusions:
- Anaerobic culture is superior to aerobic culture for the primary isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae from pediatric respiratory samples.
- The distinct colony morphology under anaerobic conditions aids in easier identification.
- Including anaerobic culture in the diagnostic process is recommended for improved detection rates.