Comparison of Gen-Probe AccuProbe Group B streptococcus culture identification test with conventional culture for the detection of Group B streptococci in broth cultures of vaginal-anorectal specimens from pregnant women

The performance of the AccuProbe Group B Streptococcus Culture Identification Test (Gen-Probe Incorporated, San Diego, CA, USA) for the detection of group B streptococci (GBS) directly from LIM broth cultures of vaginal-anorectal swab specimens from pregnant women (two swabs per patient in most cases) was evaluated by comparing results to those of conventional GBS culture. Of 411 specimens analyzed, 82 were positive and 312 were negative for GBS by both methods. After initial testing, the percent agreement was 95.9%. The initial sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the AccuProbe test were 90.1%, 97.5%, 91.1%, and 97.2%, respectively. Results were discrepant for 17 specimens: eight were GBS positive by probe and negative by culture; nine were negative by probe and positive by culture. To resolve discrepancies, culture plates were re-examined for GBS colonies, AccuProbe testing was repeated on the initial LIM broth cultures, and the second swab (if received) was inoculated to LIM broth for AccuProbe testing after overnight incubation. After discrepant resolution testing, the percent agreement between the two test methods was 97.8%. The final sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the AccuProbe test were 95.6%, 98.4%, 94.6%, and 98.7%, respectively. These data suggest that the AccuProbe test is a reliable method for detecting GBS in vaginal-anorectal specimens, providing results more rapidly than conventional culture. However, strict adherence to the manufacturer's test protocol is necessary to limit technical errors. Copyright (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc.