Detection of bacterial antigens in body fluids with the Wellcogen Haemophilus influenzae b, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Neisseria meningitidis (ACYW135) latex agglutination tests

Abstract

The Wellcogen H. influenzae by S. pneumoniae and N. meningitidis (ACYW135) latex agglutination tests were evaluated as methods to detect bacterial antigens in CSF, urine and serum from patients with meningitis or sepsis. Antigen was detected in 92% of CSF from H. influenzae b, 100% of CSF from N. meningitidis groups A and Y, 36% of CSF from N. meningitidis group C and 69% of CSF from pneumococcal meningitis patients. Serum samples presented a problem, with a few false-positive or possible cross-reactions. The Wellcogen latex agglutination tests were more sensitive than the Bactogen (H. influenzae type b) latex agglutination test and the Phadebact (S. pneumoniae) coagglutination test.