Identification of Mycobacterium bovis, using miniaturized thin-layer chromatography and morphologic characteristics

Lipid analysis was performed on 204 isolates of mycobacteria, using miniaturized thin-layer chromatography (MTLC). A previously described lipid component was found in 92 (96.8%) of 95 isolates of Mycobacterium bovis and in 2 (1.8%) of 109 isolates of other mycobacteria. Using MTLC, an isolate could be identified as M bovis 3 to 4 weeks earlier than by use of conventional biochemical techniques. Examination of isolates for colonial and cellular morphologic characteristics was a useful adjunct in the identification of M bovis by use of MTLC.