Microbiological and Serological Tests
Microbiological studies are a set of laboratory methods aimed at detecting, identifying, and studying microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi) that cause infectious diseases in humans. They help determine the nature of the infection, its causative agent, and select effective treatment.
Main methods of microbiological analysis
- Microscopic method — visualization of microorganisms in the sample using a microscope and special staining (e.g., Gram stain), allowing preliminary identification of the pathogen type.
- Cultural (bacteriological) method — cultivation of biological material on nutrient media to grow pure cultures of microorganisms, identify them, and determine antibiotic sensitivity.
- Biological method — infection of experimental animals to reveal pathogen virulence and isolate pure cultures.
Serological studies
Serological methods are based on detecting specific antibodies or antigens in the patient’s blood, allowing diagnosis of infections when pathogen isolation is difficult or impossible. These include:
- Determination of antibody titers to infectious agents.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) — quantitative determination of antibodies and antigens.
- Immunochemiluminescent assay (ICLA) and other immunological methods.
Indications for microbiological and serological tests
- Suspected infectious diseases of various localizations.
- Need to clarify the infection agent and its antibiotic sensitivity.
- Diagnosis of chronic and latent infections.
- Monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Materials for analysis
Biological materials used include blood, urine, sputum, wound exudate, mucous membranes secretions, amniotic fluid, and other samples depending on the clinical situation.
Advantages of modern methods
- High accuracy and sensitivity of diagnosis.
- Automation and acceleration of the research process using modern bacteriological analyzers.
- Ability to detect a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Determination of antibiotic sensitivity to select effective treatment.
Microbiological and serological tests are key tools in diagnosing infectious diseases. They provide precise pathogen identification, help select appropriate therapy, and monitor its effectiveness, significantly improving the quality of medical care.