Rapid biotyping of Haemophilus influenzae and Haemophilus parainfluenzae with PathoTec strips and spot biochemical tests

PathoTec strips and spot biochemical tests were evaluated for the ability to biotype Haemophilus influenzae and Haemophilus parainfluenzae. Indole, urease, and ornithine decarboxylase reactions were tested. The results of PathoTec strips compared favorably with those conventional methods; the percent agreements were as follows: indole, 100; urease, 99.5; and ornithine, 95.5. Spot tests were simple and rapid, and the results also compared favorably with those of conventional tests; the percent agreements were as follows: indole, 99; urease, 100; and ornithine, 96.