Immunological Tests

What is meant by immunological tests?

Immunological tests are a series of laboratory analyses and specialized tests that detect infections or disorders of the immune system.

The immune system’s role is to protect the body from pathogens by neutralizing toxins, pathogenic microorganisms, and cancer cells.

However, the immune system does not always work effectively. It can also turn against non-pathogenic organisms or even body cells.

An immunological test can detect a disease, assess its course, and help in treatment management.

Immunological tests for autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases are diseases that occur when the immune system attacks the cells and the organs of the body.

Indicatively, the following diseases are related to autoimmune disorders:

Depending on the profile of the autoimmune disease, the following immunological tests can take place:

• General Blood Count (CBC), ESR, C-reactive protein (CRP)
• C3 & C4 Blood Test
• Uric acid (UA), transaminases (ALT / AST), CK, LDH
• Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrulline antibodies (anti-CCP)
• Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and ANA profile
• Anti-cardiolipin antibodies
• Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO), anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg), TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb)
• Antibody assay for smooth muscle fibers (ASMA)
• Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs)

Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are diseases or infections that are transmitted from person to person mainly through sexual behavior. Some STDs can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or from mother to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding.

A full screening for STDs includes:

• Test for Hepatitis A (Anti-HAV), Hepatitis B (Australian Antigen), and Hepatitis C (Anti-HCV)
• Testing for HIV-1 & HIV-2 Total Antibodies to detect the virus that causes AIDs
• Molecular test for Chlamydia, Ureaplasma, Syphilis, Mycoplasma, Trichomonas, and Gonorrhea
• Molecular detection of human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Genital herpes test
• Pap smear and vaginal culture test

Immunological tests at PLUS diagnostic center

Using state-of-the-art devices, PLUS microbiology laboratory conducts a series of routine analyses and specialized tests that detect:

• Bacterial, viral, mycoplasmal, and parasitic infections
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Immune deficiencies
• Histocompatibility antigens
• Allergies

Specialized immunological analyzers run the measurements. An experienced Medical Biopathologist evaluates the results before sending them to the patient.