An immunology test is a laboratory procedure that uses artificially produced antibodies to detect specific substances or germs in a sample.
How Immunology Tests Work
Immunology tests leverage the specific binding action of antibodies. Here's a breakdown:
- Artificial Antibodies: Laboratories create antibodies that are specifically designed to match a particular substance or germ of interest.
- Sample Collection: A sample is collected from the patient, which could be blood, mucous membrane, urine, or stool.
- Binding: When the artificial antibodies come into contact with a sample containing the matching substance or germ, they bind to it.
- Detection: This binding indicates the presence of the targeted substance or germ, and the test can be further interpreted to identify results.
Types of Samples
Immunology tests can be performed using various types of samples:
- Blood: To detect bloodborne pathogens, allergens, or autoimmune markers.
- Mucous Membrane: To detect respiratory infections, or localized infections.
- Urine: To detect urinary tract infections, or kidney-related diseases.
- Stool: To detect gastrointestinal infections, or parasites.
Example
Let's consider an example of detecting a specific virus using an immunology test.
- Artificial antibodies made for the virus are introduced to the patient's blood sample
- If the virus is present in the blood sample, the artificial antibodies will bind with the virus.
- This binding allows laboratory staff to determine if the virus is present, allowing for appropriate treatment.
