Development of a simple method for the rapid identification of organisms causing anthrax by coagglutination test

•First report of coagglutination test for detection of bacteria producing anthrax.•Can be used to determine virulence of suspected cultures.•Can be used for specific diagnosis of anthrax under field conditions.•Detects even 9 × 103 formalinized vegetative cells or 11 ng of PA.•Provides rapid, simple to use, cost effective and safe method.

A protective antigen (PA) based coagglutination test was optimized in the present study for the specific and sensitive identification of bacteria causing anthrax in a cost effective and less risky manner. The test showed 100% specificity and sensitivity up to 9 × 103 formalinized vegetative cells or 11 ng of PA. The optimized test also detected anthrax toxin directly from the serum as well as blood of anthrax infected animals indicating the potential application for direct diagnosis of anthrax under field conditions.