A transport method for swab specimens submitted for aerobic and anaerobic bacteriology

The need for separate swab transport methods for aerobes and anaerobes may result in inadequate transport of specimens for anaerobic bacteriology. Most microbiology laboratories in Australia rely on Stuart's transport medium to protect anaerobic bacteria. This paper presents a new, simple transport medium (Transport Deep) suitable for sue with aerobes and anaerobes. Comparative evaluations demonstrate that Transport Deep is as good as Stuart's medium for the maintenance of fastidious bacteria and is far superior for the protection of even extremely oxygen-sensitive anaerobes. This medium has been used successfully in a large Sydney hospital for more than a year. It is proposed that Transport Deep be used on a routine basis for all swab specimens.