Effective Sampling for immuno-diagnostics Flashcards
Why can pathogens not be detected straight after infection?
Detection can only occur once the pathogen has divided sufficiently
Antibodies will not be detected early on as they have not had enough time to develop (unless vaccinated or previously infected)
How can IgG antibodies be detected due to infection?
Acute sample before response
Convalescent sample ~2 weeks after response
This allows time for seroconversion/production of memory antibodies
Describe the use of CRP and fibrinogen detection in imuno-diagnostics
CRP - acute increase
Fibrinogen - slower increase
More useful for prognostic monitoring than diagnostics
Signify inflammation, not just infection
What types of samples can you take for immuno-diagnostics
Blood - Into correct tube
Mucosal surfaces (e.g. nasopharyngeal swabs) - Into the correct transport medium
Respiratory tract (e.g. endoscopy – tracheal wash)
Less invasive sampling e.g. milk, saliva
