Staining of rickettsial antigens for microagglutination reaction.

Staining of antigens of R. prowazeki, R. canada and R. conori with hematoxylin-Harris for use in MAR was developed. Optimal results were obtained when rickettsial antigens were stained at 4 degrees C for 18 hours. Comparison of MAR with CFR has shown that MAR using stained rickettsial antigens is specific and as sensitive as CFR.