Plasmacoagulase test

This test is used to distinguish bacteria within the genus Staphylococcus. The plasmacoagulase test demonstrates the presence of a plasmacoagulase protein with enzymatic activity that converts fibrinogen into solid fibrin.

Principle: Coagulase-forming strains convert the liquid plasma into which they have been inoculated into a solid coagulum. It is important not to forget the possibility of false negatives, as some strains also produce the enzyme staphylokinase (also fibrinolysin), which dissolves fibrin. Therefore, checks at 2, 6, 18 and 24 hours after plasma inoculation are necessary.

Results:
 * positive – Staphylococcus aureus
 * negative – Staphylococcus epidermidis

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