INTRODUCTION
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) causes purulent bacterial infections,
many of which can lead to serious complications resulting in significant
morbidity and healthcare costs. A quarter of the population carry S.
aureus asymptomatically and its early detection is vital in preventing
transmission and subsequent infection. In patients with cystic fibrosis, S.
aureus is one of the most commonly isolated pathogens and is
associated with advanced pulmonary disease.
The objective of this study was to validate the use of CHROMagar™
Staph aureus agar to screen for S. aureus in nasal surveillance
specimens and respiratory specimens from cystic fibrosis patients. The
study was carried in two hospitals: Hamilton (ON – Canada) and NECKER (Paris – France).
CONCLUSION
Results showed CHROMagar™ Staph aureus had a significantly
greater sensitivity than Mannitol Salt in isolating S. aureus from nasal
surveillance specimens and respiratory specimens from cystic fibrosis
patients. S. aureus colonies were easily differentiated as mauve colour
and most breakthrough growth was inhibited.
