IS THIS STAPH??
•catalase-positive
•coagulase-positive
•golden yellow colony on agar
Diagnosis is based on performing test with colonies from body fluid samples. Nasal swabs and secretions can be collected for assay
•Tests for clumping factor, coagulase, hemolysins are routinely used to identify S. aureus.
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The catalase test is important in distinguishing streptococci (catalase-negative) from staphylococci, which are vigorous catalase-producers. The test is performed by adding 3% hydrogen peroxide to a colony on an agar plate or slant. Catalase-positive cultures produce O2 and bubble at once.
In terms of clinical relevance, the staphylococci are conveniently divided into two groups: those which produce a positive coagulase test within 24 hours (coagulase-positive staphylococci, commonly identified and reported as Staphylococcus aureus) and those which do not (coagulase-negative staphylococci, commonly identified and reported as coagulase-negative Staphylococcus sp., or CNS). Nearly all strains of Staph produce the enzyme coagulase. However, there is no overwhelming evidence that it is a virulence factor, although it is reasonable to speculate that the bacteria could protect themselves from phagocytic and immune defenses by causing localized clotting.
Clumping factor results when strains express a fibrin type of binding protein that promotes attachment to blood clots and traumatized tissue.

Sample(s) to be collected
Food poisoning samples , Stool and/or vomiteous
Suspected foods, Any skin lesions of suspected food handlers
Pneumonia sample: Sputum