Serotype or serovar refers to distinct variations within a subspecies of bacteria or viruses. These microorganisms, viruses, or cells are classified together based on their cell surface antigens. Determining serotypes, the process of serotyping, can be based on a variety of factors, including virulence, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in Gram-negative bacteria, presence of an exotoxin (such as pertussis toxin in Bordetella pertussis), plasmids, phages, genetic profile (such as determined by polymerase chain reaction), or other characteristics which differentiate two members of the same species,[1][2] allowing the epidemiologic classification of organisms to the sub-species level.[1][3] A group of serovars with common antigens is called a serogroup.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serotype
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