[Specificity of the serological diagnosis of dysentery using erythrocytic reagents].

The serological specificity of the diagnosis of dysentery, made by different methods with the use of antigenic and antibody erythrocyte diagnostic agents under the conditions of the circulation of different Shigella species and subspecies in a given locality, has been compared. The method for the determination of the diagnostic titer of the total serum antibody activity has proved to be the least specific. The methods for the detection of Shigella antigens, especially over time, in patients' excretions and for the determination of serum antibody activity show complete specificity. The combination of specificity and sensitivity makes the detection of Shigella antigens in feces by means of the passive hemagglutination test and the antibody neutralization test the method of choice for the diagnosis of dysentery.