Unit Code 110255:
Bacterial Antigen Test, Serum
Useful For
Rapid screening for sepsis due to Haemophilus influenzae type
B, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis,
Escherichia coli, or streptococcus group B.
This test should not be used to diagnose sepsis; culture is necessary.
Clinical Information
Streptococcus group B and Escherichia coli K1 are two of the most
common causes of neonatal sepsis. In older age groups the most
common isolates are Haemophilus influenzae type B,
Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Neisseria meningitidis groups.
Sepsis is a serious medical illness that requires prompt treatment.
Diagnosis depends on clinical findings and culture. Latex
agglutination tests have been developed to rapidly identify
bacterial antigens.
Reference Values
Negative
If positive, the specific bacterial antigen is identified.
Interpretation
A positive result suggests the presence of bacterial antigens in
the serum. However, examples have been reported of unrelated
bacteria which possess common antigens. As with any
immunological test, the possibility of false positives due to cross
reactions cannot be ruled out.
A negative result suggests the absence of bacterial antigens.
However, it does not eliminate the possibility of an infection caused
by this organism. If symptoms are present, cultures are indicated.
Cautions
Tests performed directly on clinical specimens are intended for
screening purposes and do not eliminate the need for culture.
False-positive and false-negative results may occur.
Clinical Reference
Tunkel AR, Scheld WM: Pathogenesis and pathophysiology of
bacterial meningitis. Clin Microbiol Rev 1993;6:118-136.
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