Serologic

Serology is the scientific study of serum and other bodily fluids. In practice, the term usually refers to the diagnostic identification of antibodies in the serum. Such antibodies are typically formed in response to an infection (against a given microorganism), against other foreign proteins (in response, for example, to a mismatched blood transfusion), or to one's own proteins (in instances of autoimmune disease).

History

The idea of serology was first observed by scientists such as Louis Pasteur and Emil von Behring. Behring received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1901 for his work on serum therapy.

Techniques

Serological tests may be performed for diagnostic purposes when an infection is suspected, in rheumatic illnesses, and in many other situations, such as checking an individual's blood type. Serology blood tests help to diagnose patients with certain immune deficiencies associated with the lack of antibodies, such as X-linked agammaglobulinemia. In such cases, tests for antibodies will be expected to be negative.

See also

• Immunology
• Blood test
• Antibody

References

Serologic Resources
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