Early recognition of atypical Francisella tularensis strains lacking a cysteine requirement

Abstract

Seven cultures referred to in our laboratories as unidentified gram- negative bacilli or Haemophilus species were identified as atypical strains of Francisella tularensis lacking a requirement for cysteine or enriched medium for growth. The use of cellular fatty acid composition analysis facilitated early recognition of this pathogen and prompt implementation of appropriate biosafety measures.