Sérologie

Sérologie refers to the branch of immunology that studies the properties and behaviors of antibodies in blood serum. This field plays a crucial role in diagnosing infections, autoimmune diseases, and other medical conditions by detecting specific antibodies produced by the immune system in response to antigens, such as pathogens or abnormal cells. The term "sérologie" originates from the French words *sérum* (serum) and *-logie* (study of), reflecting its focus on blood serum analysis.

Serological tests are widely used in clinical laboratories to identify past or current infections. For example, tests like the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot are commonly employed to detect antibodies against viruses such as HIV or hepatitis. These tests are particularly valuable for diagnosing conditions where direct detection of pathogens is difficult, such as in the early stages of an infection or when the pathogen is not actively replicating.

Beyond infectious diseases, sérologie is also applied in the study of autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Tests like the antinuclear antibody (ANA) assay help diagnose conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis by identifying abnormal antibody responses. Additionally, blood typing for transfusion compatibility relies on serological principles to determine blood group antigens and prevent adverse reactions.

The accuracy of serological tests depends on factors such as the timing of sample collection, the sensitivity and specificity of the assay, and the patient’s immune response. False positives or negatives can occur, necessitating confirmation through additional tests or clinical correlation. Advances in technology, including automated immunoassays and molecular techniques, have improved the precision and efficiency of serological diagnostics in recent years.