Antibody and Immunoglobulin Test
Antibody and immunoglobulin test is an immunological study aimed at determining the levels of specific proteins (antibodies) produced by the immune system in response to the invasion of foreign agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites) or during allergic and autoimmune processes.
What are immunoglobulins?
- Immunoglobulins (Ig) are glycoproteins that perform a protective function by binding and neutralizing antigens.
- There are five main classes of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE, and IgD, each of which plays a specific role in the immune response.
- IgA mainly protects mucous membranes, IgG provides long-term protection, IgM is responsible for the primary immune response, IgE is associated with allergic reactions, and IgD participates in immune regulation.
Indications for the test:
- Frequent or prolonged infectious diseases (flu, pneumonia, tonsillitis, etc.).
- Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, cough, increased tearing.
- Suspected immunodeficiency or autoimmune diseases.
- Assessment of immune status after vaccination or in chronic diseases.
- Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment with immunoglobulin preparations.
- Determination of the stage and activity of infectious processes (e.g., by IgM and IgG antibodies).
What the test shows:
- The presence and level of antibodies to various infectious agents, helping to determine a current or past infection.
- The condition of the immune system — identification of immunodeficiencies or hyperreactivity.
- Diagnosis of allergies and autoimmune processes.
Test features:
- Material for study is usually venous blood, sometimes saliva (for assessment of secretory IgA).
- Test method — most commonly enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which ensures high accuracy.
- Results are interpreted considering the patient’s clinical picture and other laboratory data.
Thus, the antibody and immunoglobulin test is an important tool for diagnosing infectious, allergic, and immune diseases, as well as for assessing therapy effectiveness and the patient’s immune status.