Runyon classification

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The Runyon classification of nontuberculous mycobacteria based on the rate of growth, production of yellow pigment and whether this pigment was produced in the dark or only after exposure to light.^[1]

It was introduced by Ernest Runyon in 1959.^[2]

On these bases, the nontuberculous mycobacteria are divided into four groups:

• 1. Runyon I: Photochromogens

Runyon I organisms are slow growing, and produce a yellow-orange pigment when exposed to light. Mycobacterium kansasii, Mycobacterium marinum

• 2. Runyon II: Scotochromogens

Runyon II organisms are slow growing, and produce a yellow-orange pigment in light or in the dark. Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, Mycobacterium gordonae, Mycobacterium szulgai

• 3. Runyon III: Nonchromogenic

Runyon III organisms are slow growing, and do not produce pigment. Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare, Mycobacterium xenopi, Mycobacterium terrae

• 4. Runyon IV: Rapid Growers

Runyon IV organisms are rapid growing for mycobacteria (colonies in 5 days). They do not produce pigment. Mycobacterium fortuitum, Mycobacterium peregrinum, Mycobacterium abscessus, Mycobacterium chelonae

References

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