Abstract
SUMMARY: A co-operative taxonomic study has been performed on slowly growing nonpigmented mycobacteria (Runyon’s group III). Phenetic data on 89 strains, studied in 18 laboratories, were collected and analysed by a numerical taxonomic method. A variety of immunological properties, lipid analyses and measures of pathogenicity were analysed independently to establish correlation with numerical classification. Mycobacterium gastri, M. nonchromogenicum, M. terrae, M. avium and M. xenopi were recognized by almost all participants as distinct species. Mycobacterium novum was considered to be synonymous with M. terrae. A clearcut distinction could not be made between M. avium and M. intracellulare; the majority of participants in the study recommend that M. intracellulare be reduced to a synonym of M. avium. A minority of authors cannot agree with this proposal.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
