Description

INTENDED USE

Sabouraud Dextrose Agar is used in qualitative procedures for cultivation of pathogenic and nonpathogenic fungi, particularly dermatophytes. The medium is rendered more selective for fungi by the addition of antimicrobics. Sabouraud Dextrose Broth and Sabouraud Maltose Agar and Broth are also used for culturing yeasts, molds and aciduric microorganisms.

SUMMARY AND EXPLANATION

Sabouraud Dextrose Agar is a general-purpose medium devised by Sabouraud for the cultivation of dermatophytes. The low pH of approximately 5.6 is favorable for the growth of fungi, especially dermatophytes, and slightly inhibitory to contaminating bacteria in clinical specimens. Sabouraud Dextrose Agar is also recommended for the testing of cosmetics and food.

PRINCIPLE

Sabouraud dextrose media are peptone media supplemented with dextrose to support the growth of fungi. Sabouraud agar is also available with maltose substituted for the dextrose. Peptones are sources of nitrogenous growth factors. The carbohydrate provides an energy source for the growth of microorganisms. Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that inhibits the growth of gram-negative bacteria.