A titer test is a type of immunity check test. People have figured out that prevention is always better than treatment. That’s why diagnostic tests exist to ease the doctors’ work.

This blog intends to enlighten why a titer test is needed, highlighting the benefits and side effects it brings you.

What is the antibody titer test?

It is a specific blood test to check whether you are immune to a type of disease. The test is used for the following conditions:

 

The titer is a test to detect the presence of antibodies throughout the person’s blood. The diversity and amount of antibodies relate to the body’s immune response.

The immune system produces antibodies that mark invading microorganisms for neutralization or destruction before they cause any infection. Invading microorganisms are called pathogens. Pathogens have some markers known as antigens, which antibodies can find and link to.

The link of antigens to antibodies stimulates the immune response. This is a complicated interaction of immune tissues and cells to defend against invading organisms and overcome the infection.

 

Why did my doctor prescribe the antibody test?

An antibody test also determines whether or not you need certain immunizations. This test can identify whether:

  • You require a booster shot
  • You recently had an infection
  • Your immune system shows a strong response to your tissues, which may indicate an autoimmune disorder.
  • An immunization stimulates a strong reaction against the condition.

 

How should I prepare for the test?

It would help if you inform your physician about:

  • Any prescription or nonprescription medications
  • Vitamins you’re taking
  • Dietary supplements

 

Before a medical test is performed.

Generally, no specific preparation is required for this test. However, research shows that people who receive chemotherapy have a reduction in antibody levels, so inform your doctor if you’ve recently done chemotherapy.

 

How is the test performed?

Healthcare personnel ties a band above the blood site. Next, they will cleanse and sterilize the area using the antiseptic before injecting a tiny needle directly into your vein.

Most people experience sharp pain at the first puncture, which rapidly fades as the blood is flowing. When the blood is collected, the healthcare takes out the needle.

Then, you should apply pressure to the puncture site using a cotton ball or gauze. A bandage is put on the site, and you can then leave the center.

This test includes a low-risk process. However, slight risks can consist of:

  • Feeling faint at the sight of blood
  • Hematoma (bruising)
  • Soreness or redness at the puncture site
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Pain
  • Infection

Or other side effects.

 

Titer test cost

If you need to know about the cost of an antibody test, you can call our consultants, and you will get the answer ASAP.

 

What do abnormal results indicate?

Abnormal test results may diagnose diseases such as:

  • Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (aPL)
  • Hyper-IgE syndrome
  • X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome

Abnormal results may also show past infections. For instance:

  • Meningitis
  • Diphtheria
  • Mononucleosis
  • Helicobacter pylori bacteria infection
  • Chickenpox
  • Hepatitis

 

What happens next?

You should discuss all the results with your doctor. Further testing may include:

  • Serum immunoglobulin levels measurement
  • Peripheral blood smear
  • Complete blood count (CBC)

 

Why is an antibody level crucial?

Antibodies are specified proteins made by your immune system to preserve the body against antigens (foreign invaders). Most of the time, a sole antibody class is only efficient in defending against one type of antigen.

Having sufficient levels of an antibody shows that you are immune to the disease the blood titer was performed for.

 

Who needs a blood titer?

The following conditions apply to you if you are requested to do an antibody test:

  • You got accepted into a medical school
  • You work for a healthcare company and need the titer test for the employment process
  • Your physician asked you to prove you are immune to specific diseases for personal reasons

These are everyday situations when one requires a titer.

 

Titer test in Summerlin, Las Vegas

As you have seen, the benefits of a titer test weigh more than its side effects. Nevertheless, these tests are necessary, especially for the ones who work in healthcare centers, such as nurses.

If you require a titer test, Southern Nevada Occupational Health Center is one of the most loyal and cost-effective centers in Las Vegas. Call us every time you are in need.

2 Comments

  1. Jashua says:

    I read the article and decided to take my test in this center, I am glad I did it.

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