Antigen-antibody reactions, serologic testing methods, and autoimmune and infectious disease marker interpretation.
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- What is an antigen?
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A substance capable of triggering an immune response and binding to an antibody- What is an antibody?
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A protein (immunoglobulin) produced by plasma cells that binds specifically to an antigen- What are the five classes of immunoglobulins?
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IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE- Which immunoglobulin is the first antibody produced in a primary immune response?
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IgM- Which immunoglobulin crosses the placenta to provide passive immunity to the fetus?
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IgG- Which immunoglobulin is predominant in mucosal secretions such as saliva and tears?
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IgA- Which immunoglobulin is associated with allergic reactions and parasitic infections?
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IgE- What is the difference between a primary and secondary immune response?
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The secondary response is faster and produces a higher antibody titer due to immunologic memory- What is the ELISA method used for?
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Detecting and quantifying antigens or antibodies using enzyme-linked detection- What is agglutination testing based on?
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Clumping of particles, such as red cells or latex beads, coated with antigen or antibody when the complementary substance is present- What is the principle of precipitation reactions in serology?
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Formation of a visible precipitate when soluble antigen and antibody combine in optimal proportions- What is the western blot test commonly used to do?
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Confirm a positive screening result, such as confirmatory HIV testing- What test is used as an initial screen for syphilis?
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RPR (rapid plasma reagin) or VDRL- What test is used to confirm a positive syphilis screening test?
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FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption) or TPPA- What antibody is classically tested to diagnose infectious mononucleosis?
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Heterophile antibody (monospot test)
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