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Streptococcal group B type antigen X in group L streptococci
C Lämmler1, K Gürtürk, H Blobel
1Institut für Bakteriologie und Immunologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Federal Republic of Germany.
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Group L streptococcal cultures share a common antigen X with group B streptococci. This finding suggests cross-reactivity between these bacterial groups, impacting serological identification methods.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Streptococcal bacteria are classified into serological groups based on their cell wall antigens.
- Accurate identification of streptococcal groups is crucial for diagnosis and treatment of infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antigenic relationship between group L and group B streptococci.
- To determine if group L streptococci possess antigens shared with group B streptococci.
Main Methods:
- Coagglutination tests were performed on extracts from 29 group L streptococcal cultures.
- Immunodiffusion tests were used to analyze reactions with antiserum against group B streptococcal type antigen X.
Main Results:
- Extracts from 19 out of 29 (65.5%) group L streptococcal cultures showed distinct reactions with the antiserum.
- The identified antigen X in group L streptococci was comparable to antigens found in serological groups B and G.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of group L streptococcal isolates express an antigen (X) also found in group B streptococci.
- This cross-reactivity has implications for the serological differentiation and identification of streptococcal species.