Antibody testing
Antibody Testing
Antibody testing (pronunciation: /æn.tɪˈbɑː.di ˈtɛs.tɪŋ/), also known as serology testing, is a type of medical test that is used to identify the presence of antibodies in the blood. The term "antibody testing" is derived from the Greek words "anti" (against) and "body" (substance), and the Latin word "testis" (witness).
Overview
Antibody testing is primarily used to determine if an individual has been exposed to a specific virus or bacteria. When the body is exposed to a foreign substance, such as a virus or bacteria, it produces antibodies to fight off the infection. These antibodies remain in the body even after the infection has been cleared, providing immunity against future infections. Antibody testing can therefore be used to determine if an individual has immunity to a specific virus or bacteria.
Procedure
The procedure for antibody testing involves taking a sample of blood from the individual. This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to identify the presence of specific antibodies. The results of the test can indicate whether the individual has been exposed to the virus or bacteria in question, and whether they have developed immunity.
Uses
Antibody testing is used in a variety of medical contexts. It can be used to diagnose certain diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis, and to determine if an individual has immunity to diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella. During the COVID-19 pandemic, antibody testing was used to determine if individuals had been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and had developed immunity.
Related Terms
- Antigen: A substance that triggers the production of antibodies.
- Immunity: The ability of the body to resist infection.
- Serology: The study of blood serum and the antibodies it contains.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antibody testing
- Wikipedia's article - Antibody testing
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