Legal Definitions - serological test

A serological test is a medical examination performed on a blood sample, primarily to detect the presence of specific antibodies or antigens. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to foreign substances like viruses or bacteria, while antigens are the foreign substances themselves. These tests are crucial for identifying current or past infections, determining immunity to certain diseases, or assessing other characteristics related to the immune system.

• Confirming Immunity Post-Vaccination
  Imagine a student preparing to enroll in a university program that requires proof of immunity to measles. They might undergo a serological test to determine if they have sufficient antibodies against the measles virus, either from a past infection or a previous vaccination. The presence of these specific antibodies in their blood confirms their immune status, fulfilling the university's requirement.

• Diagnosing a Specific Infection
  A person experiences symptoms like persistent fatigue and joint pain, leading their doctor to suspect Lyme disease. To confirm this, a serological test is ordered. This test would look for antibodies that the patient's immune system would produce specifically in response to the bacteria causing Lyme disease. Detecting these antibodies helps the doctor make an accurate diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment.

• Screening Donated Blood for Safety
  Before blood donated for transfusions can be used, it undergoes rigorous screening. This includes multiple serological tests to detect the presence of infectious agents such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. These tests identify specific antigens from these viruses or antibodies produced by the donor's immune system in response to them, ensuring the safety of the blood supply for recipients.