Immunitetsprov

Immunitetsprov, or tests of immune status, refer to laboratory and clinical assessments used to evaluate an individual's immune competence and responsiveness to antigens. They encompass measurement of humoral immunity, cellular immunity, and functional immune responses in order to determine protection against infections, response to vaccination, or presence of immunodeficiencies.

Humoral assessments typically involve quantifying specific antibodies in blood, such as immunoglobulins or pathogen- or vaccine-specific IgG. Neutralization assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) are common methods. Results are interpreted against reference titers or protective thresholds to judge whether an individual is considered immune to a particular pathogen.

Cellular assessments evaluate T-cell–mediated immunity. Lymphocyte proliferation tests (response of T cells to mitogens or antigens) and assays measuring cytokine production are used to gauge functional T-cell activity. Delayed-type hypersensitivity tests, such as the tuberculin skin test, can reflect memory T-cell responses in vivo.

Immunitetsprov are applied in several contexts, including evaluation of suspected immunodeficiencies, assessment of vaccine responses (to confirm adequate protection after vaccination), pre-treatment risk stratification, and research settings to study immune function.

Interpretation of results depends on the test type, timing relative to vaccination or exposure, and individual factors such as age or ongoing immunosuppression. Limitations include assay variability, cross-reactivity, waning antibody levels with preserved cellular immunity, and incomplete correlation between laboratory findings and actual protection.

Regulatory and practical aspects emphasize use in accredited laboratories, adherence to standardized protocols, and consideration of clinical context to guide decisions about vaccination, prophylaxis, or further immunological workup.