Lab method
CAMP test
Arrowhead synergy = Group B strep / Listeria
kamp
High-yield clue
An arrowhead of enhanced hemolysis where the streak meets S. aureus beta-hemolysin marks CAMP-positive Group B strep (S. agalactiae).
Overview
A synergistic-hemolysis concept where CAMP factor enlarges the beta-hemolysis of Staphylococcus aureus, producing a classic arrowhead zone used to flag Group B streptococcus.
Classification
- Synergistic hemolysis concept
- Beta-hemolytic identification
- Arrowhead pattern readout
Lab & identification clues
- CAMP factor + S. aureus beta-hemolysin = arrowhead
- Positive: Group B strep (S. agalactiae)
- Listeria monocytogenes is also CAMP-positive
- Read against a perpendicular S. aureus streak
Associations
- Group B strep identification vocabulary
- Listeria study cross-reference
- Beta-hemolysis synergy framing
Commonly confused with
- Bacitracin test
- Hippurate hydrolysis test
Frequently asked questions
What is CAMP test?
A synergistic-hemolysis concept where CAMP factor enlarges the beta-hemolysis of Staphylococcus aureus, producing a classic arrowhead zone used to flag Group B streptococcus.
What is the high-yield clue for CAMP test?
An arrowhead of enhanced hemolysis where the streak meets S. aureus beta-hemolysin marks CAMP-positive Group B strep (S. agalactiae).
What is CAMP test associated with?
CAMP test is associated with Group B strep identification vocabulary, Listeria study cross-reference, and Beta-hemolysis synergy framing.
What is CAMP test commonly confused with?
CAMP test is commonly confused with Bacitracin test and Hippurate hydrolysis test.
Original concept summary for coursework. Sources checked: OpenStax Microbiology 2e and NCBI Bookshelf Medical Microbiology; reviewed 2026-06. Describes vocabulary and interpretation concepts only; not a lab protocol and not for handling specimens or identifying patient isolates.