What are antibody serology tests?
Antibody serology tests check for the presence or level of specific antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are proteins that the immune system makes to fight foreign substances. These substances are often pathogens, (disease-causing germs) such as viruses and bacteria. When you have an infection, your body makes antibodies targeted to those pathogens. These antibodies may protect you from getting another infection or severe symptoms. A vaccine can also provide protection by triggering your immune system to make antibodies to pathogens.
An antibody serology test can show that your immune system can fight off certain diseases.
Other names: antibody titer test, antibody test, antibody serum test
What are they used for?
Antibody serology tests are used to look for antibodies to specific diseases. These include:
COVID-19
Measles and mumps
Varicella zoster virus, which includes chickenpox and shingles
Hepatitis
Mononucleosis
The tests may also be used to check for certain antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases cause your immune system to attack your own cells, tissues, and/or organs by mistake.
Antibody serology tests are not used to diagnose diseases. They can show that you have antibodies to a disease. But they can't show if the antibodies are from a current or past infection or from a vaccination.
Inputs Courtesy: ENT Specialist Doctor with 41 years of experience. He can be reached only by WhatsApp messages at 9243301223.
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