Wellcogen™ Strep B Rapid Latex Agglutination Test kit, for 30 Tests

The Thermo Scientific™ Wellcogen™ Strep B Rapid Latex Agglutination Test is a rapid, qualitative diagnostic assay designed for the detection of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) antigens directly from clinical specimens. Utilizing latex agglutination technology, the test enables fast and reliable identification of Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus), a major cause of neonatal infections and bacterial meningitis.

This assay provides a simple and efficient screening method for detecting GBS antigens in body fluids and blood culture samples, supporting timely clinical decision-making. It is widely used in clinical microbiology laboratories as a complementary tool alongside culture and molecular diagnostic methods.

Key Features

• Specific Detection of Group B Streptococcus (GBS)
  Targets Streptococcus agalactiae antigens with high specificity.
• Rapid Latex Agglutination Technology
  Provides visible results within minutes for immediate interpretation.
• Simple, Manual Workflow
  Easy-to-use format requiring no specialized instrumentation.
• Broad Sample Compatibility
  Suitable for testing multiple clinical specimen types.
• Reliable Screening Tool
  Supports early detection of GBS infections in clinical settings.
• CE Marked for Diagnostic Use
  Complies with applicable regulatory standards.

Applications

Clinical Diagnostics

• Detection of Group B Streptococcus in suspected infections
• Screening for bacterial meningitis and septicemia
• Support for diagnosis of neonatal infections

Microbiology Laboratories

• Rapid antigen detection from clinical specimens
• Testing of blood culture supernatants
• Screening of bacterial isolates

Public Health & Infection Control

• Monitoring of Group B Streptococcus infections
• Support for maternal and neonatal health programs

Test Principle

The assay is based on latex agglutination:

1. Latex particles coated with antibodies specific to Group B Streptococcus antigens are mixed with the sample
2. If GBS antigen is present, antigen–antibody binding occurs
3. Visible agglutination indicates a positive result

Supported Sample Types

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
• Serum
• Urine
• Blood culture supernatants
• Other body fluids

Technical Specifications

Ordering Information

Clinical Significance

Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) is a leading cause of neonatal sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia, as well as infections in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Early detection is critical for preventing severe complications and improving patient outcomes.

Latex agglutination testing enables rapid identification of GBS antigens, particularly in cases where culture results may be delayed or affected by prior antibiotic therapy. This makes it a valuable screening tool in urgent clinical scenarios.

Unique Advantages

• Rapid Turnaround Time
  Enables quick screening and supports urgent clinical decisions.
• High Specificity for GBS
  Ensures reliable detection of Group B Streptococcus.
• Ease of Use
  Minimal training required; suitable for routine laboratory workflows.
• Complementary Diagnostic Tool
  Enhances detection when used alongside culture and molecular methods.
• Flexible Sample Testing
  Supports multiple specimen types for broader clinical application.

The Thermo Scientific™ Wellcogen™ Strep B Rapid Latex Agglutination Test is a reliable and efficient solution for the rapid detection of Group B Streptococcus antigens. Its speed, simplicity, and diagnostic value make it an essential tool for clinical microbiology laboratories, particularly in supporting early diagnosis of neonatal and invasive infections.