Improved procedures for differentiating Microsporum persicolor from Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
Microsporum persicolor, a zoophilic dermatophyte species, is seldom recorded causing human infections in North America. Its identification has been enhanced as a direct result of the development of improved techniques for its characterization. Identifying characteristics include induction of rough-walled macroconidia on sodium chloride-amended medium, absence of good growth at 37 degrees C, and absence of a pH change during growth on casein glucose medium. In contrast, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, a species commonly confused with M. persicolor, has smooth-walled macroconidia, grows well at 37 degrees C, and produces an alkaline reaction on casein glucose medium.
Ontario Ministry of Health Laboratory Services Branch, Toronto, Canada.
J
J
Kane
L
L
Sigler
R C
RC
Summerbell
D003470:Culture Media; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D008864:Microsporum / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D013696:Temperature; D014249:Trichophyton / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification*
D003470:Culture Media