Streptococcal Grouping Latex Kit

Clinical, epidemiological and microbiological studies have conclusively shown that the diagnosis of streptococcal infections based on clinical symptoms always requires microbiological verification. Beta-haemolytic streptococci are the most frequently isolated human pathogens among the representatives of the genus Streptococcus. Nearly all the beta-haemolytic streptococci possess specific carbohydrate antigens (streptococcal group antigens). Lancefield showed that these antigens can be extracted in soluble form and identified by precipitation reactions with homologous antisera. Different procedures for extraction of streptococcal antigens are currently in use. The Streptococcal Grouping Latex Kit is based on liberation of specific antigen from bacteria cell walls by modified nitrous acid extraction. The extracted antigen in conjunction with latex agglutination offers a rapid, sensitive and specific method for identification of streptococcal groups A, B, C, D, F and G from primary culture plates.