Abstract

The latex slide test (L.S.T.) has been shown to be simple to perform and easy to read. It gives results comparable with the more complicated serological procedures used in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

In 603 cases the L.S.T. and differential agglutination test gave a high degree of correlation. There were only four discrepancies between the two tests. The L.S.T. is the more practicable for routine laboratory use.

The L.S.T. has been correlated with the duration, activity, and extent of rheumatoid arthritis, and also with the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, haemoglobin level, and radiographic appearances. The various serological tests are tabulated.