RAPID BACTERIOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS OF PYOGENIC MENINGITIS BY LATEX AGGLUTINATION

A latex-agglutination test was used in the bacteriological diagnosis of pyogenic meningitis. This test, which depends upon agglutination of coated latex particles by bacterial antigens released into the cerebrospinal fluid, was positive in a high percentage of patients with meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Hœmophilus influenzœmeningitis. The test is quick, cheap, and easy to carry out and is as sensitive as counter-current immunoelectrophoresis and more sensitive than gram stain and culture in diagnosing these types of meningitis. It may prove to be of special value in areas with only limited laboratory facilities. © 1974.