Isolation and Identification of Staphylococci

Vocabulary flashcards based on the identification and isolation of Staphylococcus species in a lab setting.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Mandatory gear including face mask, lab coat, gloves, safety glasses, long pants, and close-toed shoes used in the laboratory.

Staphylococcus aureus

A species of bacteria; 30% of the population are carriers, 1% carry MRSA, and it’s known for causing skin and bone infections, toxic shock, and food poisoning.

Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA)

A selective and differential media containing 7.5% NaCl used to detect mannitol fermentation, with interpretations based on color change.

Catalase Test

A biochemical test to check for the presence of catalase enzyme by adding hydrogen peroxide to a sample and observing for bubbling.

Coagulase Test

A test to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from coagulase-negative staphylococci based on ability to clot plasma.

Gram Reaction

The response of bacteria to the Gram stain process; Staphylococci are Gram-positive.

Differential media

Media that contains ingredients that allow for the differentiation of organisms based on their biochemical capabilities.

Hemolysis Patterns

The reaction of bacteria on Blood Agar Plates, indicating their ability to lyse red blood cells; includes alpha, beta, and gamma hemolysis.

Novobiocin Susceptibility Test

A test determining the sensitivity of bacteria to novobiocin, helping to distinguish between Staphylococcus saprophyticus (resistant) and others.

Cocci

A morphological shape of bacteria that is spherical; Staphylococci are observed in clusters.

Staphyloxanthin Production Test

A biochemical test to assess the pigment production in Staphylococcus species, particularly indicative of S. aureus.

Selective media

Type of media that encourages the growth of specific types of organisms while inhibiting others.

Catalase positive

Indicates the presence of the enzyme catalase, shown by the production of bubbles when hydrogen peroxide is applied.

Mannitol Fermentation Test

A test to determine if an organism can ferment mannitol, indicated by a color change in the medium.

Medical relevance of Staphylococci

Clinical importance due to their role in infections, with certain species like S. aureus being associated with serious health issues.

Isoforms of Staphylococcus

Different strains or species within the Staphylococcus genus, each with unique characteristics and pathogenic potentials.