CAMP factor is a diffusible, heat-stable protein produced by group B streptococci. This is a synergistic test between Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae. S. agalactiae produces CAMP factor. S. aureus produces sphingomyelin C, which binds to red blood cell membranes. The two bacteria are streaked at 90o angles of one another. They do NOT touch. The CAMP factor produced by S. agalactiae enhances the beta-hemolysis of S. aureus by binding to already damaged red blood cells. As a result, an arrow of beta-hemolysis is produced between the two streaks. The test is presumptive for S. agalactiae that produces CAMP factor.
In the picture here, Streptococcus agalactiae was streaked throughout the top region of the plate and brought down toward the center of the plate. Staphylococcus aureus was streaked in a straight line across the center of the plate. Rings of hemolysis are evident all around S. aureus, however the hemolysis if greatly enhanced (in an arrow shape) where the S. agalactiae crosses the hemolysis rings.
