vastaainemäärityksiä

Vasta-ainemäärityksiä are laboratory tests used to detect and quantify the presence of specific antibodies in a biological sample, typically blood serum. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign substances like bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. The presence and level of antibodies can indicate past or current exposure to an antigen, the molecule that triggers the immune response.

These assays are crucial in diagnostics for identifying infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and allergies. For example, detecting antibodies against a specific virus can confirm an infection. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, and specific autoantibodies are often present and can be measured. Allergy testing also involves identifying antibodies, such as IgE, that are indicative of an allergic reaction to specific allergens.

Various techniques are employed for vasta-ainemäärityksiä, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), Western blots, immunofluorescence assays, and radioimmunoassays. The choice of method depends on the target antibody, the required sensitivity and specificity, and available laboratory resources. The results of these tests help clinicians diagnose conditions, monitor disease progression, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, such as vaccinations or immunotherapies.