Evaluation of Available Diagnostic Tests for Melioidosis

ObjectivesMelioidosis is an infection caused by the gram-negative bacillus Burkholderia pseudomallei. The aim of the current study is to explore and assess the diagnostic potential of molecular and serologic methods as compared with the more established but time consuming culture methods.MethodsThirty-five strains isolated from patients of melioidosis and environments were investigated for microbial culture, Gram staining, indirect immunofluorescent test (IFAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).ResultsAll strains grew on Francis medium with a characteristic yellow haze. With 30 strains PCR showed an amplification of 178 bp band. Thirty sera specimens showed IFAT test positive.ConclusionThough PCR and IFAT are the confirmatory tests still the culture is considered as the most convenient method. Francis medium showed the best result for isolation of the organism.