Anaerobic Environment Clinical Microbiology Review 200
Ideal atmosphere
Methods
Anaerobic transport media
Self-contained anaerobic agar
Anaerobic generating systems
Anaerobic chamber
Quality control
Methylene blue strip
Resazurin
Oxygen analyzers
80%–90% N 2 , 5% H, 5%–10% CO 2
Tubes of O 2 -reduced agar, tubes with anaerobic environment inside, or gas-impermeable bags with
gas-generating environment. Most have indicator that changes color in presence of O2.Can maintain
anaerobes for 24–72 hr.
Brucella-based blood & LKV agars contain enzyme that reduces O 2. Lid creates airtight seal.
Plates in bag or container. Packet or ampule added. Chemical reaction removes O 2.
“Glove box.” Gold standard. Workbench in gas-tight cabinet. Anaerobic atmosphere created/maintained
by gas tank, palladium catalysts, & desiccants. Work done through gloved or gloveless openings.
Blue = O 2 present, white or colorless = no O 2.
Pink = O 2 present, colorless = no O 2.
More expensive. Real-time monitoring.
