Serology tests, also known as antibody tests, are blood tests that measure the presence of antibodies or antigens in your blood. Antibodies are proteins made by your immune system to help fight infections caused by viruses or bacteria. If you’ve had a recent infection, vaccination, or possible exposure to a virus or bacteria, a serology test can help determine if your body has built up immunity. Here’s everything you need to know to understand your serology test report. Let’s get started.
What are serology tests?
Serology tests are lab tests that check for antibodies or antigens in your blood. These antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to fight off infections. These tests can help determine if you have been exposed to a disease or if you’ve been vaccinated against it.
What are the types of serology tests?
Here is the complete serology test list you may encounter in your lab report:
Agglutination Test
The agglutination test detects antigens by causing visible clumping. This test is commonly used in blood typing and is also helpful for diagnosing bacterial infections and rheumatic fever. The clumping reaction indicates the presence of specific antigens, making it a useful diagnostic tool.
ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
ELISA is a test that measures antibodies or antigens by causing a color change. It is widely used for detecting infections like HIV and hepatitis. ELISA is also commonly used to assess vaccine efficacy by checking the immune response it generates.
Hemagglutination Test
The hemagglutination test identifies antibodies by causing red blood cell clumping. This test is primarily used for diagnosing influenza and determining blood groups. The clumping reaction occurs when antibodies bind to specific antigens present on the red blood cells.
Western Blot Test
The Western Blot Test is used to confirm specific proteins in a blood sample. It’s often employed as a follow-up test to confirm the presence of certain infections, such as HIV or Lyme disease. The test separates proteins in the sample and identifies the ones related to the disease.
Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
The immunofluorescence assay uses fluorescent dyes to detect antibodies in the blood. This test is mainly used to diagnose autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, by highlighting specific antibodies associated with these conditions under a microscope.
Flow Cytometry
Flow cytometry measures antibodies and analyzes cell properties. It uses lasers to examine cells in a fluid sample, providing detailed information about cell size, structure, and the presence of antibodies. This test is often used to evaluate immune responses and diagnose hematologic conditions.
Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
Radioimmunoassay uses radioactivity to detect antibodies in a blood sample. It is commonly used for measuring hormone levels and performing allergy testing. The test works by attaching radioactively labeled antigens to antibodies, allowing precise measurements of antibody concentrations.
Serology Test for Viral Infections
Serology tests are commonly used to detect antibodies to various viruses. Here’s a look at some viral tests you might encounter:
- Hepatitis A, B, and C: Detects antibodies that show past exposure or current infection.
- Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Tests for antibodies related to glandular fever.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Identifies antibodies for immunity or active infection.
- Rubella: Checks immunity in pregnant women or exposure risk.
What are antibody serology tests?
Antibody serology tests specifically look for antibodies in your blood. These tests can help:
- Determine if you’ve had a recent or past infection.
- Assess if you’ve been vaccinated and if that vaccine is still providing protection.
For example, if you had chickenpox as a child or received a vaccine, your test might show the antibodies that offer protection against future infection.
Why serology test is done?
Here are a few reasons you might need an antibody serology test:
- To Check Your Vaccination Status: If your medical records are unclear, the test can confirm whether you’ve had vaccinations for diseases like measles, mumps, or hepatitis.
- To Check Immunity: The test can confirm if you’re immune to certain diseases, like chickenpox or rubella.
- For Autoimmune Disease Diagnosis: Tests may help detect autoimmune diseases like lupus, where your body attacks its own tissues.
- For Occupational or School Requirements: Some employers or schools may require proof of immunity to certain diseases like Hepatitis or Rubella.
What is the normal range for serology tests?
The normal range for serology blood tests typically means no antibodies have been detected in your blood.
This indicates that you haven’t been exposed to the tested pathogen or infection. If antibodies are found, it suggests past exposure or vaccination against the disease.
Abnormal results could show the presence of antibodies, indicating that
- You’ve had a past infection.
- You have immunity due to vaccination.
- You are actively fighting an infection.
How to read your serology test results?
Here is how you can read your serology test report:
- Positive Result:
If antibodies are detected, it usually means you’ve been exposed to a specific pathogen or received a vaccination that triggered your immune system to create those antibodies. For example, a positive result for hepatitis antibodies means either you’ve had the infection or been vaccinated. - Negative Result:
If no antibodies are found, it indicates you haven’t been exposed to the pathogen or haven’t received the vaccination. For example, a negative result for the rubella antibody may mean you need a vaccine to protect yourself.
How to prepare for a serology test?
There’s no special preparation required for most serology tests. However, if you are on any medications, it’s a good idea to let your doctor know. They may advise you on whether any adjustments are needed before the test.
What are the risks associated with serology tests?
The risks of a serology test are minimal. It’s a blood test, so there might be slight pain or bruising where the needle is inserted. But most symptoms go away quickly.
Conclusion
Understanding your serology test report is key to knowing your immune status and history of infections. Whether you’re checking for past infections, vaccination status, or autoimmune diseases, serology tests offer valuable insights.
If you’re unsure about the results, always discuss them with your healthcare provider, who can guide you on the next steps.
Let your doctor know if you have any concerns, and they can help interpret the findings based on your medical history.
See Also: How To Understand Your Thyroid Test Results: A Complete Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is serology test cost?
Your serology test report may consist of multiple tests. Here are the MRP prices for the tests:
- Rheumatoid Factor (RA), Serum – ₹660.00
- Viral Screening Extended – ₹1,720.00
- Rapid Plasma Reagin Test – ₹400.00
- Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) – ELISA – ₹660.00
- HIV 1 & 2 Antibody – ₹600.00
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody – ELISA – ₹620.00
- Widal Test – ₹660.00
- HIV 1 & 2 Antibody – ELISA – ₹760.00
- Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) – ₹520.00
- Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody – ₹2,000.00
- Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) Profile, Immunoblot – ₹4,640.00
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody – ₹620.00
- Anti Nuclear Antibody – ANA – ₹960.00
- Rubella Virus Antibody, IgG – ₹1,220.00
- Anti Nuclear Antibody Qualitative – IFA Method – ₹1,740.00
- Dengue Profile – Rapid – ₹1,000.00
- Beta 2 Glycoprotein 1 Panel – ₹3,500.00
- Interferon Gamma TB Assay – ₹4,740.00
- Anti Cardiolipin Antibody, IgG (ELISA) – ₹1,120.00
- Typhoid Antibody, IgM & IgG – Rapid – ₹840.00
Note that the cost is subject to change based on your location and laboratory.
What is the difference between a serology test and a biopsy?
A serology test is a blood test used to detect antibodies or antigens, helping determine if you’ve been exposed to infections or vaccines. It’s non-invasive and commonly used for screening diseases like HIV or hepatitis. On the other hand, a biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the body to examine for abnormal cells, such as cancer. It’s an invasive procedure often used to diagnose conditions affecting organs like the liver, lungs, or skin. While serology tests focus on immune responses, biopsies provide direct insights into tissue health.
What is a dengue serology test?
Serology for dengue is a blood test used to detect antibodies or antigens related to the dengue virus, helping to diagnose a dengue infection. The test typically looks for IgM antibodies, which are produced by the body in response to the dengue virus, or NS1 antigens, which are present in the early stages of infection. The IgM test can detect antibodies usually after 4-5 days of symptoms, while the NS1 test can identify the virus early, even before the body produces antibodies. These tests are helpful for diagnosing dengue, especially in the acute phase (0–7 days after symptoms appear), but can be affected by factors like cross-reactivity with other viruses. The results are most accurate when taken at the right time during the illness, and it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper interpretation of the results.
What is triple serology test?
A triple serology test is a blood test that screens for three infections: rubella, hepatitis B, and syphilis. It is commonly used during pregnancy to check if the mother has immunity or is at risk of these infections, which can affect both her health and the baby’s. The test helps ensure proper precautions or treatments are taken if needed.
