A modified Elek test for detection of toxigenic corynebacteria in the diagnostic laboratory

J Clin Microbiol. 1997 Feb;35(2):495-8. doi: 10.1128/jcm.35.2.495-498.1997.

Abstract

The detection of toxigenicity among Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans strains is the most important test for the microbiological diagnosis of diphtheria. Difficulties with current methods, in particular the Elek test, are well documented. We therefore describe a modified Elek test which provides an accurate result after only 16 h of incubation, in contrast to 48 h for the conventional test.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacteriological Techniques*
  • Corynebacterium diphtheriae / isolation & purification*
  • Corynebacterium diphtheriae / pathogenicity
  • Diphtheria Toxin / analysis*
  • Precipitin Tests / methods*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Diphtheria Toxin