What is the antibody titer?
The antibody titer is a test that determines the level and presence of antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are produced by the human immune system to remove and attack foreign substances. The antibody titer is generally performed as any standard blood test.
The antibody titer is performed for several reasons. The test can determine whether an individual or recently had an infection such as mononucleosis or viral hepatitis. It may also indicate whether immunization should be carried out, such as a booster shot. It can also show whether the recent vaccine will be strong enough to protect from disease.
One of the common titres of antibodies is the Coombs test. It is served in direct and indirect forms. The direct COOMBS test is performed to determine whether there are antibodies associated with the red blood cell. These antibodies usually evolve when a person uses drugs excessively or has a disease. Anemia or jaundice usually will be the result of these antibodies.
Indirect Coombs test withused very rarely. This titer of antibodies detects unlimited circulating antibodies in blood serum. The test is mainly carried out to determine whether an individual could have a response to a blood transfusion.
Coombs' test in both forms could also be performed in a newborn baby to see if his mother passed antibodies during pregnancy. This is a problem when a mother has a rh-negative blood and a child has a rh-positive blood. While in the uterus , antibodies could pass the placenta to the fetus.
The results of the antibody titer are usually accurate. But there are times when this is not the case. Some of the reasons for the wrong test include past blood transfusions, recent X -ray or use of certain drugs.
There are no preparations that must be taken before administration of the antibodies. The procedure includes drawing blood from a vein, usually on the back of the hand or from the inside of the elbow. In infants or younger childrenLanceta could be used. If a person has, there are virtually no health risks.
As in any time, blood is taken, one may feel pain, but usually is at a lower level. After completing the antibody titer, there could be some pulsation, as well as bruises or swelling where the needle was injected. These problems can usually be alleviated by an individual that keeps the pressure in a place for several minutes.