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Am J Perinatol 1992; 9(4): 304-308
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-999247
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1992 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Comparison of Rapid Tests for Detection of Group B Streptococcal Colonization

Cheryl K. Walker, William R. Crombleholme, Marilyn J. Ohm-Smith, Richard L. Sweet
  • Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, California
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Publication Date:
04 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Accurate rapid detection of maternal lower genital tract colonization with group B streptococci (GBS) in high-risk patients is essential for selective institution of intrapartum antibiotic treatment to reduce neonatal GBS infection. In this study, pure GBS isolates were used to evaluate five commercially available rapid tests in terms of speed, ease of use, and sensitivity. The products tested were Directigen, Equate, Bactigen, PathoDx, and Phadebact. Although each test could be performed relatively quickly, the ease of performance and level of sensitivity (105 to 108 CFU/ml) varied markedly. Quantitative cultures obtained from 17 known GBS carriers showed concentrations ranging from <102 to >108 CFU/gm of vaginal material. Since only 40% of the women had ≥105 CFU/gm of vaginal material, it appears that many colonized women would not be identified by these rapid tests.