Campylobacter culture media are -a) Schaedler’s agarb) CVA mediumc) Regan-Lowe mediumd) Skirrow mediume) Campylobacter blood agar
**Core Concept**
Campylobacter species are fastidious, microaerophilic bacteria requiring specific culture conditions for growth. Campylobacter culture media must provide the necessary microaerobic environment and nutrients to support the growth of these bacteria.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is Campylobacter blood agar, which is supplemented with antibiotics to inhibit the growth of other bacteria. The medium is also incubated under microaerobic conditions (5-10% oxygen) at 42°C, which is optimal for Campylobacter growth. The addition of 5-10% CO2 and the use of a candle jar or anaerobic jar further enhances the microaerobic environment. This specific medium is preferred for the isolation of Campylobacter species from clinical specimens.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Schaedler's agar is a general-purpose agar used for the isolation of anaerobic bacteria, but it is not specifically designed for Campylobacter culture.
**Option B:** CVA medium (Cysteine Vasopressin Agar) is used for the isolation of Corynebacterium diphtheriae, not Campylobacter.
**Option C:** Regan-Lowe medium is used for the isolation of Helicobacter pylori, another microaerophilic bacterium, but not Campylobacter.
**Option D:** Skirrow medium is used for the isolation of Campylobacter species, but it is not as commonly used as Campylobacter blood agar.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Campylobacter species are a leading cause of foodborne gastroenteritis worldwide, often associated with the consumption of undercooked poultry or contaminated water. Suspect Campylobacter infection in patients with diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, particularly after consuming contaminated food or water.
**Correct Answer:** D. Skirrow medium