Widal test

Widal Test

The Widal test (pronounced: /wiːˈdɑːl/) is a serological test used primarily to diagnose Salmonella infections, specifically typhoid fever. It was first developed by Georges-Fernand Widal in 1896.

Etymology

The test is named after its inventor, Georges-Fernand Widal, a French physician and bacteriologist. Widal developed the test during his research into typhoid fever, a common and deadly disease during his time.

Procedure

The Widal test involves the agglutination of antibodies and antigens. The patient's serum is mixed with a known antigen of Salmonella. If the patient has antibodies against Salmonella in their blood, these will bind to the antigens, causing visible clumping or agglutination.

Interpretation

A positive Widal test indicates the presence of antibodies against Salmonella in the patient's blood, suggesting a current or past infection. However, the test has limitations and can produce false positives. Therefore, it is usually used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods.

Related Terms

• Agglutination
• Antibody
• Antigen
• Salmonella enterica
• Typhoid fever
• Serology

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Widal test
• Wikipedia's article - Widal test

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