What type of specimen is typically transported on charcoal media?

Charcoal media is particularly useful for transporting specimens that may contain certain types of bacteria that are sensitive to oxygen or that may be overgrown by other microorganisms. In this context, specimens collected from genital sources, such as swabs from the urethra or cervix, are often transported on charcoal media to preserve the viability of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and other fastidious organisms. The charcoal acts to neutralize toxic substances and provides a suitable environment for the growth of these bacteria.

Blood specimens are typically collected in specific blood tubes that contain preservatives and anticoagulants, not charcoal media. Similarly, urine specimens are usually transported in sterile containers without the need for charcoal. Sputum specimens, while they can contain fastidious organisms, are generally not transported on charcoal media; they are usually placed in sterile containers that support the growth of respiratory pathogens without the additional requirement of charcoal absorption. Therefore, genital specimens are the type that most appropriately benefits from charcoal media during transport, as it helps maintain the integrity of sensitive bacterial flora.