Serological Diagnosis Techniques

Serological Diagnosis Techniques A serology blood test is performed to detect and measure the levels of antibodies as a result of exposure to a particular bacteria or viruses (antigens), the immune system produces specific antibodies against these organism. Antibody levels (antibody titer) help physicians determine whether an infection occurred recently (Acute) or years ago (chronic). Serological testing is particularly helpful in the diagnosis of rickettsial and viral diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, influenza, measles, poliomyelitis, and yellow fever, as well as of infectious mononucleosis and rheumatoid arthritis. As a practical mass-screening diagnostic tool, it has proved valuable in the detection of such conditions as syphilis. Antibodies are a type of protein produced by your immune system to fight off invaders like bacteria or toxins. Antigens are substances that provoke a response from the immune system. They can enter the human body through the mouth, through broken skin, or through the nasal passages. Antigens that commonly affect people include the following: • Bacteria • Fungi • Viruses • parasites Submitting specimens 1. Whole blood: Refrigerated specimens must be received within 24 hours of the time of collection.