Comparison of the R-B System and the Enterotube for the Identification of Enterobacteriaceae

Abstract

The R-B system and the Enterotube were compared for accuracy and speed in identifying Enterobacteriaceae. Two hundred isolates were studied. Accuracy was evaluated by two criteria, correct identification of the isolate and correct results of the individual tests. The numbers of errors resulting from the use of the Enterotube and the R-B system were found to be about the same. The Enterotube was more successful in identifying isolates without the use of further tests, mainly because the inclusion of urea enabled the differentiation of Proteus rettgeri from Providencia. The Enterotube was found to be more satisfactory for our use, because there were many Proteus and Providencia isolates in our laboratories.