ABSTRACT
Cellular cross-contamination between cultures of different types can occur unless strict precautions are taken to prevent it, as mentioned in Chapter 3.1. Mycoplasma contamination of cell cultures is common, and the possible sources include laboratory workers themselves, especially if mouth-pipetting is used, animal serum in the nutrient medium, and clinical specimens inoculated into the cultures. Spread from culture to culture can take place either by aerosol or by direct transfer. Methods for the detection of mycoplasmata have been described by Kenny; • and Barile2 has discussed their cytopathic effects and interactions with viruses.
