Rapid grouping of beta-hemolytic streptococci by latex agglutination

Abstract
Latex agglutination was compared with fluorescent-antibody staining with group A conjugate and Lancefield precipitation for grouping .beta.-hemolytic streptococci. Latex agglutination correctly grouped 98.8% of 82 group A streptococci and more than 95% of 187 group B, C or G streptococci. Occasional crossreactions occurred between groups A and C and groups B and G.