Immunological and Allergy Studies
Immunological studies are advanced diagnostic methods based on the study of antigen-antibody interactions and the assessment of the human immune system state. They help identify infections, immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and evaluate the body’s immune response to various stimuli.
Main types of immunological studies
- Antibody detection — identification of specific antibodies in blood produced in response to infections or allergens. This helps diagnose ongoing or past infections, as well as allergic reactions.
- Immunoglobulin analysis (IgA, IgM, IgG, IgE) — evaluation of various immunoglobulin classes to detect immunodeficiencies, allergies, and chronic inflammatory processes.
- Cellular immunological methods — analysis of the quantity and functional activity of immune cells (T- and B-lymphocytes, macrophages), important for diagnosing immunodeficiencies and autoimmune diseases.
- Immunobiochemical methods — study of enzyme, hormone, and cytokine activities regulating immune processes.
- Immunological allergy tests — determination of allergic reactions to various substances via specific IgE analysis or skin tests.
Methods of testing
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) — a widely used method based on antigen-antibody binding with enzyme labeling, allowing quantitative detection of immune components.
- Immunochemiluminescent assay (ICHLA) — a highly sensitive method based on light emission during antigen-antibody interaction.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) — allows detection of pathogen DNA or RNA for precise infection diagnosis.
- Immunofluorescence methods — use of fluorescent labels to detect antigens or antibodies under a microscope.
- Agglutination and immunochromatography reactions — rapid methods for detecting antigens or antibodies in biological fluids.
Indications for immunological and allergy testing
- Diagnosis of infectious and viral diseases.
- Identification of allergic reactions and allergens.
- Assessment of immunity in immunodeficiencies and autoimmune diseases.
- Monitoring treatment effectiveness and vaccination.
- Diagnosis of chronic inflammatory and oncological diseases.
Immunological and allergy studies are crucial tools in modern medicine providing detailed information about the immune system’s state, identifying causes of allergies and infections, and aiding in selecting effective treatment. Modern methods ensure high diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity, contributing to improved medical care quality.