Which agar is best for isolating a gram-negative, slender, curved rod that causes enteritis?

Campy blood agar is the optimal choice for isolating gram-negative, slender, curved rods such as Campylobacter species, which are known to cause enteritis. This specialized medium is designed to support the growth of these bacteria, which prefer microaerophilic conditions, meaning they thrive in environments with lower oxygen levels than are present in the atmosphere.

The formulation of Campy blood agar includes selective agents that inhibit the growth of competing flora, allowing the target bacteria to flourish. The enriched nutrients in the medium, combined with the microaerophilic environment, create an ideal setting for the recovery of the organism.

Other agar types mentioned have different purposes. Sheep blood agar provides a nutrient-rich environment but does not have the selectivity needed for Campylobacter, which may lead to overgrowth of other bacteria. Human blood Tween agar is similar in that it is enriched but not specifically tailored for isolating curved gram-negative rods. XLD (Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate) agar is designed for isolating enteric gram-negative bacteria but is more suited for isolating Salmonella and Shigella, making it less effective for Campylobacter species.

Thus, Campy blood agar is tailored for the specific growth requirements of the curved