THE CULTIVATION OF EPIDERMOPHYTON INGUINALE

In recent issues of The Journal of Cutaneous Diseases difficulties encountered in the cultivation of Epidermophyton inguinale have been discussed. During the past two years, in the routine culture of cases of epidermophyton infection in this clinic, we have encountered the same difficulties and have to some degree overcome them. TECHNIC Collection of Material.— In the collection of material, precautions should be taken to minimize as far as possible extraneous contamination, especially from the saprophytic molds, which are common inhabitants of the skin surface. The skin is cleansed with 95 per cent. alcohol and allowed to dry immediately before the scrapings are taken; the knife used in obtaining scales, and the black paper into which scrapings are received, should be sterile. A large amount of material should be collected. Time of Planting.— Mitchell 1 has suggested that scales for cultivation be allowed to dry for several days before being cultivated,