DERMATOPHYTE TEST AGAR
Dermatophyte Test Agar is a solid medium for the isolation of pathogenic dermatophytes fungi from cutaneous sources. Dermatophytes are keratinolytic fungi that invade the skin, nails, and hair. Soy Peptone supplies the nitrogen and carbon compounds necessary for fungal growth. Dextrose is the fermentable carbohydrate. Phenol Red detects alkaline compounds produced by these fungi by shifting to red. Agar is the gelifying agent. Cycloheximide and Chloramphenicol inhibit the growth of saprophytic fungi and bacteria, respectively, while allowing that of dermatophytes belonging to the genera Microsporum, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton.