Compatibility GreenSwab & Microorganism
Our Compatibility Check helps you determine which np swab is suitable for which microorganism or which microorganism can be processed with which np swab. This enables you to always select the optimal transport medium for your specific diagnostic requirements.
Die Passgenauigkeiten dieser Tabelle sind Empfehlungen der nerbe plus GmbH & Co. KG.
Die Übertragbarkeit ist daher von Ihnen selbst sehr sorgfältig zu prüfen. Ansprüche aus der Tabelle können nicht abgeleitet werden.
To Microorganism Glossary
Why Compatibility is Vital – The hidden dangers of incompatible swabs
When the wrong transport medium is combined with an unsuitable pathogen, serious consequences can arise:
| Possible Consequence | Impact |
|---|---|
| False-negative results | The pathogen does not survive in the transport medium or does not multiply sufficiently, leading to negative test results even though an infection is present. Patients do not receive necessary treatment. |
| Reduced pathogen viability | Some transport media can damage or kill certain microorganisms, making cultural cultivation impossible. |
| Missing neutralization | For samples that may contain disinfectant residues, special neutralizing media are required. Without these, false-negative results can occur. |
| Therapy decision errors | Based on erroneous laboratory results, unnecessary or incorrect antibiotics may be administered, leading to resistance development and treatment failure. |
Amies Transport Medium - The All-Rounder for Bacteriology
Optimized for bacteria and fungi
Amies Transport Medium is the workhorse in microbiological diagnostics. Its special composition maintains the viability of a wide range of bacterial pathogens for a sufficient period. From gram-positive staphylococci to gram-negative enterobacteria and demanding pathogens like Neisseria gonorrhoeae - Amies provides a reliable transport solution.
Typical applications:
- Wound swabs
- Urogenital swabs
- Skin and mucous membrane swabs
- Routine microbiology
LTM/LTM-n Transport Medium - The Virus Specialists
Highly specialized for virological diagnostics
LTM (Liquid Transport Medium) and its neutralizing variant LTM-n were specifically developed for the requirements of virology. These media contain additives that ensure the stability of viruses during transport while simultaneously inhibiting bacterial contamination.
Key strengths:
- Optimal stability for sensitive viruses
- Neutralization of inhibitors
- Ideal for PCR diagnostics
- Proven performance with respiratory viruses
LUM Transport Medium - For Demanding Pathogens
Specialized medium for intracellular pathogens
LUM Medium was developed for particularly demanding pathogens that have special nutritional requirements or live intracellularly. Its unique composition ensures the survival of these sensitive microorganisms.
Target pathogens:
- Mycoplasma
- Ureaplasma
- Chlamydia
- Other intracellular pathogens
Microorganism Overview: Which Belongs to Which?
Bacterial Pathogens in Focus
Our database includes over 40 different bacterial pathogens, including clinically highly relevant species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and many more. Each of these pathogens has specific requirements for the transport medium.
Virological Challenges
From adenoviruses and influenza to SARS-CoV-2 - viruses place special demands on transport conditions. Our compatibility database takes into account the specific needs of each virus group.
Fungi and Special Pathogens
Fungi such as Candida species and Aspergillus species also require specific transport conditions to ensure diagnostically usable samples.
The Right Product for Every Application
| Product Category | Description | Special Features | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nasal Special Swabs | Specially shaped swabs for the nasal cavity | Anatomically adapted shape, optimized sample collection, maximum patient comfort | Nasal swabs, nasopharyngeal samples, respiratory diagnostics |
| Standard Swabs | Classic swabs for routine applications | Balanced combination of sample collection and preservation, universally applicable | Wound swabs, skin swabs, urogenital samples, general microbiology |
| Neutralizing Systems | Special systems with neutralization effect | Neutralize disinfectant residues, prevent false-negative results | Surgical swabs, intensive care samples, contamination-prone materials |
Use Cases
| Application Area | Description & Benefits |
|---|---|
| Emergency Room and Acute Care | Rapid and reliable pathogen identification is crucial in acute care. Our compatibility check supports medical staff in selecting the right system under time pressure. |
| Microbiological Laboratories | For laboratories receiving samples from various senders, our tool provides a quick verification option for sample transport compatibility. |
| Outpatient Care | General practitioners and specialists in outpatient care benefit from the easy handling and the certainty of always selecting the correct sample collection system. |
| Continuous Development | Our compatibility check is regularly updated to account for new scientific findings and changing pathogen spectra. We work closely with microbiological experts to ensure the reliability and timeliness of our recommendations. |
Glossar: Mikroorganismen
spp. = species pluralis.
The "spp." following microorganism names is an important taxonomic abbreviation!
Meaning:
- "spp." stands for multiple species of a genus
- It refers to the entire species group of a genus
Examples:
PORPHYROMONAS spp.
- Meaning: All species of the genus Porphyromonas
- Includes e.g.: P. gingivalis, P. endodontalis, P. asaccharolytica, etc.
STAPHYLOCOCCUS spp.
- Meaning: All Staphylococcus species
- Includes: S. aureus, S. epidermidis, S. haemolyticus, etc.
Why is "spp." used?
- Practical Reasons: Instead of listing all species individually
- Similar Characteristics: Species within the same genus often have similar growth requirements
- Clinical Relevance: For some tests, genus-level identification is sufficient
- Space Saving: Especially for large genera with many species
Differentiation from other abbreviations:
- sp. (singular) = one unspecified species
- spp. (plural) = several/at least two species
- gen. = genus
Evidence-Based Compatibility
Every compatibility specification in our database is based on scientific studies and practical experience. We continuously work to update our database and adapt it to new scientific findings.
Quality Standards
All our Green Swab products meet the highest quality standards and are certified accordingly (Class 1s/MD CE2797 for swabs, Class As IVD CE for tubes with medium).
Frequently Asked Questions about Swabs & Transport Media
Why is choosing the right transport medium so critical?
The transport medium's primary task is to maintain the viability (survival) of the pathogens from the time of collection until laboratory analysis. An incorrect medium can kill or inhibit the pathogen, leading to false-negative results and incorrect clinical treatment decisions.
What is the difference between Amies and LTM media?
Amies is the all-rounder for bacteriology (e.g., Staphylococci, Enterobacteria) and fungi. LTM (Liquid Transport Medium) is a specialist for virology. It stabilizes sensitive viruses while simultaneously inhibiting the growth of bacterial contamination, making it ideal for subsequent PCR diagnostics.
When is the use of neutralizing media (LTM-n) necessary?
Neutralizing media are required if the sample might contain residues of disinfectants. These residues could kill the pathogen in the tube and falsify the test result. LTM-n neutralizes these inhibitory substances and ensures sample integrity.
Which medium is suitable for Chlamydia and Mycoplasma?
The LUM transport medium was developed specifically for these demanding, often intracellular pathogens. It is tailored to the specific nutrient requirements of Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, and Ureaplasma to guarantee their survival during transport.
How long does a pathogen remain stable in an np swab kit?
Stability depends on the medium and the specific pathogen. Generally, our media ensure viability for up to 48 hours at room temperature or under refrigerated storage. For optimal results, however, transport to the laboratory should occur as quickly as possible.
Are the swabs suitable for PCR diagnostics?
Yes, specifically the LTM media are optimized for molecular biological methods such as PCR, as they stabilize the nucleic acids of the viruses and minimize inhibitors that could interfere with the PCR reaction.
Our Compatibility Check helps you determine which np swab is suitable for which microorganism or which microorganism can be processed with which np swab. This enables you to always select the optimal transport medium for your specific diagnostic requirements.
Die Passgenauigkeiten dieser Tabelle sind Empfehlungen der nerbe plus GmbH & Co. KG.
Die Übertragbarkeit ist daher von Ihnen selbst sehr sorgfältig zu prüfen. Ansprüche aus der Tabelle können nicht abgeleitet werden.
To Microorganism Glossary
Why Compatibility is Vital – The hidden dangers of incompatible swabs
When the wrong transport medium is combined with an unsuitable pathogen, serious consequences can arise:
| Possible Consequence | Impact |
|---|---|
| False-negative results | The pathogen does not survive in the transport medium or does not multiply sufficiently, leading to negative test results even though an infection is present. Patients do not receive necessary treatment. |
| Reduced pathogen viability | Some transport media can damage or kill certain microorganisms, making cultural cultivation impossible. |
| Missing neutralization | For samples that may contain disinfectant residues, special neutralizing media are required. Without these, false-negative results can occur. |
| Therapy decision errors | Based on erroneous laboratory results, unnecessary or incorrect antibiotics may be administered, leading to resistance development and treatment failure. |
Amies Transport Medium - The All-Rounder for Bacteriology
Optimized for bacteria and fungi
Amies Transport Medium is the workhorse in microbiological diagnostics. Its special composition maintains the viability of a wide range of bacterial pathogens for a sufficient period. From gram-positive staphylococci to gram-negative enterobacteria and demanding pathogens like Neisseria gonorrhoeae - Amies provides a reliable transport solution.
Typical applications:
- Wound swabs
- Urogenital swabs
- Skin and mucous membrane swabs
- Routine microbiology
LTM/LTM-n Transport Medium - The Virus Specialists
Highly specialized for virological diagnostics
LTM (Liquid Transport Medium) and its neutralizing variant LTM-n were specifically developed for the requirements of virology. These media contain additives that ensure the stability of viruses during transport while simultaneously inhibiting bacterial contamination.
Key strengths:
- Optimal stability for sensitive viruses
- Neutralization of inhibitors
- Ideal for PCR diagnostics
- Proven performance with respiratory viruses
LUM Transport Medium - For Demanding Pathogens
Specialized medium for intracellular pathogens
LUM Medium was developed for particularly demanding pathogens that have special nutritional requirements or live intracellularly. Its unique composition ensures the survival of these sensitive microorganisms.
Target pathogens:
- Mycoplasma
- Ureaplasma
- Chlamydia
- Other intracellular pathogens
Microorganism Overview: Which Belongs to Which?
Bacterial Pathogens in Focus
Our database includes over 40 different bacterial pathogens, including clinically highly relevant species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and many more. Each of these pathogens has specific requirements for the transport medium.
Virological Challenges
From adenoviruses and influenza to SARS-CoV-2 - viruses place special demands on transport conditions. Our compatibility database takes into account the specific needs of each virus group.
Fungi and Special Pathogens
Fungi such as Candida species and Aspergillus species also require specific transport conditions to ensure diagnostically usable samples.
The Right Product for Every Application
| Product Category | Description | Special Features | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nasal Special Swabs | Specially shaped swabs for the nasal cavity | Anatomically adapted shape, optimized sample collection, maximum patient comfort | Nasal swabs, nasopharyngeal samples, respiratory diagnostics |
| Standard Swabs | Classic swabs for routine applications | Balanced combination of sample collection and preservation, universally applicable | Wound swabs, skin swabs, urogenital samples, general microbiology |
| Neutralizing Systems | Special systems with neutralization effect | Neutralize disinfectant residues, prevent false-negative results | Surgical swabs, intensive care samples, contamination-prone materials |
Use Cases
| Application Area | Description & Benefits |
|---|---|
| Emergency Room and Acute Care | Rapid and reliable pathogen identification is crucial in acute care. Our compatibility check supports medical staff in selecting the right system under time pressure. |
| Microbiological Laboratories | For laboratories receiving samples from various senders, our tool provides a quick verification option for sample transport compatibility. |
| Outpatient Care | General practitioners and specialists in outpatient care benefit from the easy handling and the certainty of always selecting the correct sample collection system. |
| Continuous Development | Our compatibility check is regularly updated to account for new scientific findings and changing pathogen spectra. We work closely with microbiological experts to ensure the reliability and timeliness of our recommendations. |
Glossar: Mikroorganismen
spp. = species pluralis.
The "spp." following microorganism names is an important taxonomic abbreviation!
Meaning:
- "spp." stands for multiple species of a genus
- It refers to the entire species group of a genus
Examples:
PORPHYROMONAS spp.
- Meaning: All species of the genus Porphyromonas
- Includes e.g.: P. gingivalis, P. endodontalis, P. asaccharolytica, etc.
STAPHYLOCOCCUS spp.
- Meaning: All Staphylococcus species
- Includes: S. aureus, S. epidermidis, S. haemolyticus, etc.
Why is "spp." used?
- Practical Reasons: Instead of listing all species individually
- Similar Characteristics: Species within the same genus often have similar growth requirements
- Clinical Relevance: For some tests, genus-level identification is sufficient
- Space Saving: Especially for large genera with many species
Differentiation from other abbreviations:
- sp. (singular) = one unspecified species
- spp. (plural) = several/at least two species
- gen. = genus
Evidence-Based Compatibility
Every compatibility specification in our database is based on scientific studies and practical experience. We continuously work to update our database and adapt it to new scientific findings.
Quality Standards
All our Green Swab products meet the highest quality standards and are certified accordingly (Class 1s/MD CE2797 for swabs, Class As IVD CE for tubes with medium).
Frequently Asked Questions about Swabs & Transport Media
Why is choosing the right transport medium so critical?
The transport medium's primary task is to maintain the viability (survival) of the pathogens from the time of collection until laboratory analysis. An incorrect medium can kill or inhibit the pathogen, leading to false-negative results and incorrect clinical treatment decisions.
What is the difference between Amies and LTM media?
Amies is the all-rounder for bacteriology (e.g., Staphylococci, Enterobacteria) and fungi. LTM (Liquid Transport Medium) is a specialist for virology. It stabilizes sensitive viruses while simultaneously inhibiting the growth of bacterial contamination, making it ideal for subsequent PCR diagnostics.
When is the use of neutralizing media (LTM-n) necessary?
Neutralizing media are required if the sample might contain residues of disinfectants. These residues could kill the pathogen in the tube and falsify the test result. LTM-n neutralizes these inhibitory substances and ensures sample integrity.
Which medium is suitable for Chlamydia and Mycoplasma?
The LUM transport medium was developed specifically for these demanding, often intracellular pathogens. It is tailored to the specific nutrient requirements of Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, and Ureaplasma to guarantee their survival during transport.
How long does a pathogen remain stable in an np swab kit?
Stability depends on the medium and the specific pathogen. Generally, our media ensure viability for up to 48 hours at room temperature or under refrigerated storage. For optimal results, however, transport to the laboratory should occur as quickly as possible.
Are the swabs suitable for PCR diagnostics?
Yes, specifically the LTM media are optimized for molecular biological methods such as PCR, as they stabilize the nucleic acids of the viruses and minimize inhibitors that could interfere with the PCR reaction.


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