Infectious Agent Tests: PCR
Tests for infectious agents include two main diagnostic methods — PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and serological studies (ELISA). These methods allow detection of infection pathogens and evaluation of the body’s immune response.
PCR test:
- A molecular diagnostic method that detects DNA or RNA of the infectious agent in biological material (blood, mucus, urine, swabs, etc.).
- High sensitivity and accuracy — detects infection at early stages, even with minimal amounts of the pathogen.
- Used for diagnosis of viral (HIV, hepatitis, herpes, human papillomavirus), bacterial (chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, tuberculosis), and other infections.
- Results are usually available within a few hours.
- Preparation depends on the type of biological material: blood is taken fasting, swabs require abstaining from sexual activity and hygiene procedures according to instructions.
Serological test (ELISA):
- Determines the presence of antibodies (immunoglobulins IgA, IgM, IgG) in the blood produced by the immune system in response to infection.
- Allows assessment of infection stage: IgM — acute phase, IgG — chronic phase or immunity after vaccination.
- Used to diagnose urogenital, intestinal, fungal, transmissible infections, viral hepatitis, HIV, and other diseases.
- Allows evaluation of immune status and treatment effectiveness.
Advantages and features:
- PCR detects the pathogen itself, which is important for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
- Serological tests show the immune response and help determine the disease stage.
- Both methods complement each other and are often used together for accurate diagnosis.
- Test results are interpreted by a physician considering the patient’s clinical picture.
Thus, infectious agent tests by PCR and serology are key tools in modern infectious disease diagnostics, enabling timely pathogen detection and immune response monitoring.