A Serological Study of the Gonococcus Group

Summary An analysis by agglutinin absorption methods of the serological relationships of seventy-seven gonococcus strains, isolated from cases of acute and chronic gonorrhea and its complications, indicated that they may not be distributed among a number of clear-cut immunological types. These gonococcus strains were representative of those occurring in widely separated geographical localities. Although this investigation has not demonstrated the existence of distinct immunological types to each of which a considerable number of gonococcus strains might be referred, it was found feasible to classify our strains under the three general headings of (a) regular, (b) intermediate and (c) irregular strains. Evidence is submitted which indicates the existence of a marked tendency to antigenic lability on the part of the gonococcus. We believe that instability of antigenic constitution is a general characteristic of the gonococcus group and that the strains exhibiting this tendency may not logically be segregated in one particular type, as has been suggested by Hermanies. Among our regular strains, we have found certain ones which are highly generalized from the antigenic standpoint, and which appear to be representative of a large part of the gonococcus group. Cross absorption experiments have indicated clearly that no definite serological distinction may be drawn between strains isolated from vulvovaginitis cases in children and those from gonorrheal infections in adults. A few representative strains with generalized relationships and good antigenic properties have been designated as suitable for use in a stock vaccine, and also for the preparation of a polyvalent antiserum. A marked degree of correspondence was noted between strain affinities as revealed by agglutinin absorption and complement fixation tests. Two strains of gonococcus have been selected, each of which covers a large part of the group, and which may be used to advantage in preparing an antigen for complement fixation diagnostic tests. It is also suggested that a second antigen, prepared from a number of selected irregular strains, be employed in conjunction with the one prepared from the two generalized strains. By the use of the simple sterilizable media, which have been described, these strains may be carried in laboratories with limited bactrieological facilities and the antigens prepared quickly, whenever required.