Rapid Identification of Group A Streptococcal Antigen Directly from Throat Swabs: A Study Using two Commercially Prepared Reagents

摘要

Direct identification of group A streptococcal antigens in extracts from 48 throat swabs, before culture, was done using a latex test. The latex method correctly identified 83% (Wellcome) and 91% (Difco) of the swabs containing streptococci as subsequently demonstrated by culture. The technology lends itself to the requirements of small laboratories or dispensaries and to field facilities such as those available to the Rapid Deployment Forces.