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Blood test

Overview Risks Results

Serology

Normal Values: Normally, no antibodies are present. During the first few days to weeks of exposure to an antigen, however, there may be slight antibody production. As the disease progresses, more antibodies will be present. If a disease is suspected, the test may need to be repeated 10 days to 2 weeks after the first test. What abnormal results mean: If antibodies are detected, there has been exposure to an antigen. Detection of antibodies can be used to either diagnose an active or previous infection, or to determine if the individual is immune to re-infection by an organism. Some of the different diseases that can be detected include: measles rubella anthrax Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) viral hepatitis (various types) brucellosis amebiasis fungal infection RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) tularemia syphilis Text Continues Below Additional conditions under which the test may be performed: amebic liver abscess Fifth disease fungal arthritis meningitis, cryptococcal meningitis, H. influenza meningitis, meningococcal viral arthritis

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