Comparative evaluation of commercial latex agglutination and coagglutination reagents for groups B, C, and D mastitis streptococci

A total of 144 strains of mastitis streptococci (groups B, C, and D) were grouped by conventional technique (Lancefield precipitin test) latex agglutination (LA), and coagglutination (CA). The LA correctly grouped 98% and the CA grouped 100% of strains on the test when the instructions of the manufacturers were followed. Sensitivity of both tests was improved for strains belonging to group D when extracts from colonies grown on sheep blood agar plates were used for grouping. Nonspecific reactions between groups C and B were observed only with one kit of LA reagents, whereas cross-reactions were recorded with all groups when CA reagents were used.