Detection of nitrate reductase activity of mycobacteria: an evaluation of the use of a powdered reagent in the test, and rapid swab methods as compared to the conventional test.

Tests using a powdered reagent proved to be an excellent alternative to the test using conventional reagents for the detection of nitrate reductase activity of mycobacteria. A rapid swab test, using either a dry or moist swab, showed inferior results to the conventional test.