Immunology and Serology are branches of laboratory medicine that focus on the body's immune response. These fields study antibodies, antigens, and immune system disorders to diagnose infections, autoimmune conditions, and allergic responses.
Experts in immunology and serology conduct tests to detect infections, autoimmune diseases, allergies, and immune deficiencies.
Diagnosis: Identifying viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections using antibody or antigen detection.
Autoimmune Screening: Detecting disorders where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.
Allergy Testing: Evaluating immune responses to allergens like dust, pollen, and food items.
Your doctor may recommend these tests if you have symptoms such as fever, joint pain, rashes, persistent infections, allergies, or suspected immune system disorders.
CRP (C-Reactive Protein): Detects inflammation and severe infections.
RA Factor (Rheumatoid Factor): A key marker for rheumatoid arthritis.
ASO Titre (Anti-Streptolysin O): Helps diagnose streptococcal infections and complications like rheumatic fever.
ANA (Antinuclear Antibody Test): Detects autoimmune disorders such as lupus.
Anti-CCP (Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide): Confirms rheumatoid arthritis with high accuracy.
HIV (Antigen/Antibody Test): Used for early detection of HIV infection.
Hepatitis B & C Tests: Includes HBsAg, Anti-HCV for diagnosing viral hepatitis.
Widal Test: A classic serological test for typhoid fever.
Dengue NS1, IgG/IgM: Detects dengue virus infection in early and later stages.
Malaria Antigen: Rapid detection of malaria-causing parasites.
VDRL Test: Screening for syphilis.
Total IgE: Measures allergic sensitivity and diagnosing asthma or eczema.
Allergy Panel Tests: Identifies reactions to food, dust, pollen, mites, and other allergens.
COVID-19 Antibody Test: Detects previous exposure to coronavirus.
Toxoplasma IgG/IgM: Used during pregnancy and for immunocompromised patients.