Eijkman test, or differential coliform test, or confirmed Escherichia coli count, is a test used for the identification of

coliform bacteria Coliform bacteria are defined as either motile or non-motile Gram-negative non- spore forming Bacilli that possess β-galactosidase to produce acids and gases under their optimal growth temperature of 35-37°C. They can be aerobes or facultative ...

from warm-blooded animals based on the bacteria's ability to produce gas when grown in glucose media at 46°C (114.8°F). The test to determine whether coliform bacteria come from warm-blooded animals. By means of this test it can be readily established if

water Water (chemical formula ) is an Inorganic compound, inorganic, transparent, tasteless, odorless, and Color of water, nearly colorless chemical substance, which is the main constituent of Earth's hydrosphere and the fluids of all known living ...

has been polluted by human and animal defecation containing coli bacilli. The test was introduced by

Christiaan Eijkman Christiaan Eijkman ( , , ; 11 August 1858 – 5 November 1930) was a Dutch physician and professor of physiology whose demonstration that beriberi is caused by poor diet led to the discovery of antineuritic vitamins (thiamine). Together with S ...

(1858–1930) in his paper in 1904.

References

{{Med-diagnostic-stub Medical tests