Evaluation of two rapid modifications of the 4-nitrophenyl-beta-D-glucopyranosiduronic acid (PGUA) assay for the identification of Escherichia coli from urine.
Two rapid modifications of a tube assay for the detection of beta-glucuronidase activity (PGUA assay) were evaluated for the identification of Escherichia coli from urine cultures. A microwell and filter paper adaptation of the PGUA assay were tested using 1,234 oxidase-negative, Gram-negative rods isolated from urine on MacConkey agar in clinically significant numbers. There was perfect correlation between both methods and 676 of 797 E. coli isolates were PGUA-positive within 2 h while all of remaining isolates were PGUA-negative (sensitivity = 85%; specificity = 100%). We conclude that either modified format of the PGUA assay provides a useful, inexpensive, and rapid alternative spot test for the definitive identification of E. coli from urine because of the high degree of specificity.
Dunne
W M
WM
Microbiology Division, Henry Ford Hospital, 48202, Detroit, MI, USA. dunne@pathbox.wustl.edu
Eisses
J F
JF
D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000145:classification* / Q000201:enzymology*; D004927:Escherichia coli Infections / Q000382:microbiology; D005966:Glucuronidase / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D014556:Urine / Q000382:microbiology*
D005966:Glucuronidase