System and method for rapid detection and characterization of bacterial colonies using forward light scattering

摘要

A system and a method of detecting and characterizing a bacterial colony are presented in which the results are determined within about 48 hours. The bacterial colony is disposed on a substrate and placed between a laser and detector. Light from the laser impinges upon and is scattered by the bacterial colony. The forward scattered light is detected by an optical detector. The signal from the optical detector is analyzed by an analyzer and displayed or supplied to a storage medium for review. As different strains of bacteria possess unique forward scattering fingerprints, the particular strain may be identified.