Which medium is used to culture Borrelia burgdorferi?

The medium that is specifically designed for the culture of Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, is Barbour-Stoenner-Kelly (BSK) medium. This enriched liquid medium supports the growth of this fastidious spirochete, which requires specific nutrients and conditions due to its complex growth requirements. BSK medium contains a variety of components, including a source of energy (such as rabbit serum), as well as necessary vitamins and amino acids that facilitate the growth of Borrelia species.

The other choices are not suitable for culturing Borrelia burgdorferi. Lowenstein-Jensen agar is primarily used for the culture of Mycobacterium species, such as those that cause tuberculosis. Skirrow's medium is used for the isolation of Campylobacter species, particularly in gastroenteritis cases. Thiosulfate-Citrate-Bile Salts-Sucrose (TCBS) agar is specifically formulated for the isolation of Vibrio species, particularly Vibrio cholerae and other vibrios from samples. Thus, the unique requirements of Borrelia burgdorferi make BSK medium the appropriate choice for its culture.