Feasibility of exact species identification in routine diagnosis of anaerobic infections.

Gas-liquid chromatographic analysis of metabolic products and conventional biochemical tests are actually used for the identification of clinical isolates of anaerobes. As the majority of bacteremic and other life-threatening anaerobic infections are caused by Bacteroides fragilis, the prompt and accurate identification of this highly resistant species is essential for effective treatment. The clinical significance of the identification of the other Bacteroidaceae species and Peptococcaceae is discussed.