MICRO1 Introduction to Diagnostic Microbiology for the Laboratory Sciences

These flashcards cover key concepts from Chapter 5 of the lecture on Diagnostic Microbiology.

What are the important parts of a compound microscope?

Ocular, objectives, condenser, and iris diaphragm.

What is the use of darkfield microscopy in clinical microbiology?

It is used to enhance the visibility of specimens that are difficult to see with bright-field microscopy.

What is the principle of fluorescent microscopy?

Fluorescent microscopy relies on the emission of light by a specimen after being excited by a specific wavelength of light.

What is the purpose of the iodine mount in clinical microbiology?

The iodine mount is used to enhance the visibility of certain specimens.

What are the reagents used in the Gram stain technique?

Crystal violet, iodine, alcohol (decolorizer), and safranin.

What is the appearance of gram-positive bacteria after staining?

Gram-positive bacteria appear purple under the microscope.

What is the appearance of gram-negative bacteria after staining?

Gram-negative bacteria appear pink under the microscope.

Why are Mycobacterium termed acid-fast bacilli?

Because they retain the red color when treated with acid alcohol due to their waxy cell wall.

Name three fluorescent stains used in clinical microbiology.

Fluorescein isothiocyanate, rhodamine, and DAPI.

What is the use of antibody-conjugated stains in clinical microbiology?

They are used to specifically label and detect microorganisms based on their antigens.