[A simple method for detection of P fimbriae in uropathogenic strains of E. coli]

The PF test of the Finnish firm Orion is used for detection of P fimbriae in E. coli strains. Its principle involves the establishment of a chemically defined receptor for these fimbriae on latex particles which can then be agglutinated by the appropriate strains. By means of this test the authors examined 453 uropathogenic E. coli strains. P fimbriae were detected in 121 strains, i.e. in 26.7%. Twenty-five strains agglutinated not only latex particles coated with receptor but also non-coated control particles. The test was thus falsely positive in 5.5% of the cases. Fifty-five strains, where by means of the PF test fimbriae were detected, were examined by the method of mannoresistent haemagglutination of human erythrocytes on a slide. The erythrocytes agglutinated in the presence of d-mannose of all 55 strains, and thus the results agreed in 100%. This suggests that P fimbriae can be detected by the haemagglutination method, but it must be taken into account that this method can, contrary to the PF test, detect also other adhesins. The PF test is very quick, simple and its principle ensures a high reliability.