A modification of Christensen's medium by Maslen this medium is generally used to detect rapid urease activity of Proteus spp. It can also be used to detect urease activity of other Enterobacteriaceae including urease producing Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp. When used for the latter purpose it is necessary to increase the incubation time to as long as 48 hours.
The peptone provides the required nitrogen, carbon and vitamins. Glucose is a fermentable carbohydrate. The potassium dihydrogen phosphate is a buffer and sodium chloride maintains osmotic balance. Phenol red is a pH indicator.
- Storage temperature: 10 to 30°C
- Dehydrated medium appearance: fine powder
- Prepared medium appearance: firm gel
- Dehydrated medium colour: beige
- Prepared medium colour: pale orange
- pH: 6.8 ± 0.2
- Recommended incubation: for Proteus spp – aerobically at 37°C for 4 to 6 hours; for other Enterobacteriacaea – aerobically at 37°C for 24 to 48 hours
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