Category: L

Genus within the family of the Treponemataceae, the leptospira are slender spirochaetes 7 – 14 μm long by 0.1 μm broad with very numerous, close-set coils terminated by hooked ends. Both directional and rotatory motility is seen. There are many species, both parasitic and saprophytic; the latter occur in water and are collectively styled Leptospira…

Mixture of tannic acid, sodium chloride and basic fuchsin in 33 per cent alcohol, for the staining of flagella. After 6-12 minutes staining (by trial) the films may be counterstained with borax methylene blue.  

Enzyme destroying lecithin in body cells. Its production is a differential feature among the Clostridium species, especially Cl. welchii. An enzyme from the small intestine that breaks lecithin down into its constituents (i.e. glycerol, fatty acids, phosphoric acid, and choline). An enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of lecithin.  

Test papers to indicate (by blackening) the presence of hydrogen sulphide in cultures of enterobacteria.  

Long, bent swab for reaching the larynx. The swab is composed of cotton or alginate wool, and the material so collected is concentrated and cultured for the growth of Myco. tuberculosis (particularly in cases where sputum is unobtainable).  

Lactose – peptone water plus sodium ricinoleate, a broth used for performance of the Eijkman test in place of brilliant green broth.  

Thermophilic species (45° -60°) which does not occur in human intestine. It is used in the preparation of yoghurt and cheeses. A species found in fermented milk. Milk fermented with this organism is known as Bulgarian milk. Friendly ‘Transient” bacteria found in yogurt. As Lactobacillus bulgaricus passes through the body, it aids the activity of…

Potato – agar medium for the cultivation of Bord. pertussis, not incorporating peptones, some of the constituents of which are inimical to the growth of this species. To the base potato – glycerol – agar are added, when pouring, cysteine – magnesium salt mixture, 4:4-diamidodiphenylamine dihydrochloride solution, penicillin and finally over half the agar volume…

Concentrated beef extract, used in place of fresh meat infusion in the preparation of culture media.  

Total incurred claims for a given insurance plan divided by the total premiums.