Use of antiserum-coated latex particles for serotyping Streptococcus pneumoniae

Abstract

The Quellung reaction provides a standard means for serotyping Streptococcus pneumoniae, but it requires microscopic examination with skillful technique. We have developed an improved agglutination method with anti-rabbit IgG-coated latex particles, which are sensitized with pooled antisera for serotyping/serogrouping S. pneumoniae. Our method is as specific and sensitive as the Quellung test, and much easier to perform.