The combination of radiometric methodology (BACTEC 12B) and probe technology for recovery and identification of mycobacteria was studied in two large hospital laboratories. The sediment from vials with positive growth indices was tested with DNA probes specific for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium, and Mycobacterium intracellulare. The sensitivity of the radiometric method and the specificity of the probes resulted in a marked reduction in the time to the final report. Biochemical testing could be eliminated on isolates giving a positive reaction with one of the probes. Some 176 isolates of M. tuberculosis, 110 of M. avium, and 5 of M. intracellulare were recovered. Two-thirds of these isolates were detected and identified within 2 weeks of inoculation and the remainder was detected by 4 weeks, a reduction of 5 to 7 weeks to the final report.

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A rapid colorimetric method for the identification of pathogenic Neisseria (Identicult-Neisseria; Scott Laboratories, Inc.) based on P-galactosidase, y-glutamylaminopeptidase, and y-prolylaminopeptidase is described. Ail 82 clinical isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, 9 clinical isolates of N. meningitidis, and 5 clinical isolates of N. lactamica were correctly determined to the species level, as were 4 isolates of Branhamella catarrhalis. Reactions were prompt and easily interpreted. The system should be extremely useful in clinical laboratories.

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