Detection of B. pseudomallei in Sputum using Selective Enrichment Broth and Ashdown’s Medium Compared to Standard Culture

Specimens (Column A) were inoculated into selective enrichment broth before sub-culture onto Ashdown’s medium (Column B). Colonies that grew were tested using the oxidase test (Column C); oxidase-positive colonies were tested using a monoclonal antibody-based latex agglutination test for B. pseudomallei (Column D). The final results of this testing method are given in Column E. All sputum specimens were also cultured onto sheep blood, chocolate, and MacConkey agars. The results of standard culture are given in Column F. NRF: normal respiratory flora.