Serological tests in mycology
Serological tests have now gained importance in mycology because of the rapidity of results and these tests can serve as a pronostic indicator.
Serological methods utilise the reactions and properties of the serum. The serological tests are done either to demonstrate antigen or antibody in serum or body fluids of suspected fungal infection.
The specific immune response that results from exposure to cell wall, cytoplasmic o extracellular fungal antigen during infection can be used for diagnosis. By monitoring this response, prognosis of disease and outcome of therapy can be assessed.
There are different serological tests :
- Agglutination
- Immunodiffusion (ID)
- Complement fixation test (CFT)
- Enzyme linked immunosorbent asay (ELISA)
- Lateral flow assay (LFA)
- Counter immuno-electrophoresis (CIE)
- Radio immunosorbent assay (RIA)
Serological tests in mycology have several advantages, including:
- Rapid diagnosis: Serological tests are a useful tool for the rapid diagnosis of fungal diseases, and results may be obtained several days before the clinical symptoms. This can help in the early institution of specific therapy, which can be life-saving in some cases.
- Prognostic indicator: Serological tests can serve as a prognostic indicator. They can help in predicting the outcome of the disease and can be used to monitor the response to treatment.
- Detecting new isolates: Serological tests can identify new isolates when the antibody is demonstrated against that particular antigen. This can help in the identification of new fungal species and can aid in the development of new diagnostic tests and treatments.
- Rule out lab contamination: Serological tests can help in interpreting the clinical significance of positive cultures and can rule out lab contamination. This can help in avoiding false-positive results and can aid in the accurate diagnosis of fungal infections.
- Non-invasive: Serological tests are non-invasive and can be performed on serum or body fluids of suspected fungal infection. This makes them a safe and convenient diagnostic tool for patients.
