Medical diagnostics
Types of serological tests – types and their functions
crane
Introduction to serological testing
Serological tests are one of the most important diagnostic tools that allow the analysis of the immune system by detecting antibodies or antigens in a blood sample. They can be used to assess the body's immune response to infections, vaccinations, or other external factors. They are widely used in medicine, scientific research, and biotechnology, playing a key role in identifying infectious diseases, monitoring therapy, and in epidemiological studies.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, serological tests have become an invaluable tool in analyzing the spread of the virus, assessing population immunity and supporting preventive measures. However, their use goes far beyond the diagnosis of viral infections. They are also used in research on autoimmune diseases, oncology and in transfusion medicine.
Due to their versatility, serological tests are an integral part of everyday laboratory practice, and their effectiveness depends on properly selected equipment and accessories supporting the precision of the test. It is worth taking this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the category of products for cell culture, such as cell culture platesthat support advanced research.
Types of serological tests
Serological tests vary in their mechanisms of action, sensitivity, and diagnostic applications. The key types are:
- Agglutination tests
Agglutination tests use the reaction between antibodies and antigens on the surface of cells or molecules, which leads to their clumping (agglutination). They are used in transfusion medicine for blood grouping and in bacterial diagnostics, e.g. in tests for the presence of Salmonella spp. - ELISA tests (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
ELISA tests are one of the most commonly used immunoenzymatic methods. They allow for the detection of specific antigens or antibodies in a sample, which makes them a universal tool in the diagnosis of many infectious diseases, such as HIV, HCV or hepatitis B. They are also irreplaceable in screening and control tests. - Immunochromatographic tests
Often called cassette tests, they are simple, fast and convenient diagnostic methods. An example of their use is testing for the presence of SARS-CoV-2. These tests are particularly useful in field conditions and where the waiting time for the result plays a key role. - Western Blot
This is an advanced diagnostic method used mainly to confirm the results of screening tests such as ELISA. It allows for the detection of specific proteins, which makes it extremely precise.
Each of the above-mentioned types of tests has its unique applications, and their appropriate selection allows for obtaining precise and reliable results that support doctors and scientists in making key decisions.
Summary
Serological tests are an extremely important tool in the diagnostics of modern medicine. Their use covers a wide range, from diagnosing infectious diseases to monitoring the effectiveness of treatment and vaccinations. The key element of the effectiveness of these tests is not only the appropriate diagnostic method, but also precision in sample preparation, supported by professional laboratory equipment.
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