Analysis index

Pathogen demonstration: Sputum, bronchial secretion, CSF, pharyngeal swab, nasal swab, ear swab, conjunctival swab in transport medium, blood cultures

Antibody detection: Serum (external services)

Hemophilus influenzae type B IgG (capsule antigen): < 0,15 mg/l

Vaccinal immune protection from 0,15 mg/l (Short term protection: 0,15 – 1,0 mg/l, long term protection: > 1,0 mg/l)

Epiglottitis, laryngotracheitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis, otitis media, exacerbated COPD, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, phlegmon, but also meningitis, septicemia and less commonly septic arthritis or osteomyelitis

The direct demonstration from blood or CSF is reported to the local health department by the laboratory in accordance with §7 IfSG.

Hemophilus influenza, especially capsule type B, was a feared pathogen of invasive infections, especially in children (septicemia, meningitis, epiglottitis). After commencement of vaccinations in 1990, incidence of hemophilus influenzae type B diseases has markedly decreased. There are still diseases caused by other capsule types or non-capsulated strains. In adults, these cause exacerbations of chronic bronchitis or in elderly patients, pneumonia with septicemia, for example. Conjunctivitis is also possible. Hemophilus parainfluenzae is classed as part of the physiological pharyngeal flora, with only few exceptions.

Antibody-demonstration in serum is unsuitable for acute diagnostics as it only informs of potential vaccination protection.

MVZ Prof. Dr. med. Gisela Enders & Kollegen Stuttgart