What Is Type-Specific Serology?

Doctors recommend type specific serology tests to detect the presence of specific antibodies in the blood of patients suspected of having an infection with a corresponding microorganism. .

Function

• Serological testing looks for particular antibodies in the blood serum. If the blood sample contains antibody then the microorganisms will defend the body against it. According to Medline Plus, "The blood is then analyzed in a laboratory to determine how certain antibodies react with specific antigens. The test can be used to confirm the identity of the specific microorganism."

Theory

• The microorganisms give shelter to antigens or foreign substances on their body surfaces. Antibodies can recognize and attach to particular antigens. which are targeted against specific microorganisms.

Procedure

• After taking a blood from the patient, a lab tests reactions to particular antigens. According to Medline Plus, "There are several serology techniques that can be used depending on the suspected antibodies. Serology techniques include agglutination, precipitation, complement-fixation, fluorescent antibodies and others."

Results

• When the antibodies in the blood serum react with the antigens used in the test then the patient has received an exposure to the infectious agent that carries those antigens signaling either a current or a past infection.

Sexual Health

• Type specific serology tests for sexually transmitted infections such as herpes. A report published by BMJ Journals suggests that, "Type specific serology should be recommended for the management of couples where one has genital herpes and the other apparently does not and in individuals with genital complaints suggestive of herpes."