[Methods of detection of P-fimbria in uropathogenic E. coli].

We characterized the surface properties of E. coli strains isolated from urine of children with urinary tract infections. The PF test and haemagglutination reaction were used for detection of P-fimbriae. P-fimbriae were detected in 30-54% of the pyelonephritic strains. All these strains expressed P-fimbriae in vitro. Pap genes were determined by a DNA probe in 85% of the strains isolated from pyelonephritis. These strains showed diffuse and localized adherence to tissue culture cells without any association to the expression of P-fimbriae on agar medium.