Comparative evaluation of a commercial system for identification of gram-positive cocci

The performance of a new commercial system for the identification of differ ent groups of gram-positive cocci [BBL Crystal Gram-Positive (GP) Identific ation System; Becton Dickinson Microbiology Systems, Germany] was evaluated in comparison with two currently used commercial systems, the API Staph an d the API Strep (bioMerieux Diagnostic, Germany). A total of 191 strains fr om seven different gram-positive genera comprising 32 different species wer e tested. For the BBL Crystal GP system, the correct identification rate wi thout additional tests was 89.5% at the species level and 97.9% at the genu s level. The findings suggest that the newly introduced BBL Crystal GP ID s ystem provides an accurate method for the identification of gram-positive c occi, with an overall rate of correct species identification of about 90%, similar to that of the established API systems. Its major advantage is the extended spectrum of taxa included in a single test panel in contrast to th e two different API test kits. Furthermore, the simplicity of use and the s afe and rapid handling in a closed system conveniently accommodate existing laboratory work-flow.