Tellurite Sample

The tellurite test is a method for the rapid diagnosis of diphtheria, based on the darkening of diphtheria plaques when they are moistened with a 40% aqueous solution of glycerin containing 2% sodium or potassium tellurite. This darkening is associated with the ability of the diphtheria pathogen to reduce the metal tellurium from salts.

The tellurite test allows you to quickly identify the presence of diphtheria bacilli in pathological material. A positive result is manifested as a blackening of the smear after 2-4 hours. This makes it possible to promptly begin treatment of diphtheria and prevent serious complications.

Thus, the tellurite test is a simple and accessible method for the rapid diagnosis of diphtheria, which can significantly improve the results of treatment of this dangerous infectious disease.

Tellurite tests are a method for rapid diagnosis of diphtheria. It is based on the fact that when plaque on the tonsils is wetted with a solution of glycerin with sodium or potassium tellurite, the plaque darkens. This is due to the ability of the diphtheria bacillus to reduce the metal tellurium from its salts.

The tellurite test method was developed in 1933 by Soviet microbiologist Elena Belikova. It allows you to quickly determine the presence of diphtheria plaque on the tonsils and identify the causative agent of the disease.

The tellurite test is carried out as follows: plaque on the tonsils is moistened with 40 percent glycerin containing 2 percent potassium or sodium tellurite. If the plaques darken, this means that they contain diphtheria bacillus.

However, the tellurite test is not the only method for diphtheria diagnosis and can only be used in combination with other methods. It does not provide a complete guarantee of diagnostic accuracy, so it must be used in conjunction with other tests.

Thus, the tellurite test is a quick and simple method for diphtheria diagnosis, but cannot be used as the only method. It should be combined with other tests to obtain the most accurate picture of the disease.