What are immunology and serology?

Immunology is the study of the body's immune system and its functions and disorders. Serology is the study of blood serum (the clear fluid that separates when blood clots).

Immunology and serology laboratories focus on the following:

Identifying antibodies. These are proteins made by a type of white blood cell in response to a foreign substance (antigen) in the body.

Investigating problems with the immune system. These include when the body's immune system attacks its own tissues (autoimmune diseases) and when a body's immune system is underactive (immunodeficiency disorders).

Determining organ,tissue, and fluidcompatibility for transplantation

Test

Uses

Immunoglobulins

These are proteins in the body that have antibody activity.Excessive amounts of these proteinsmay be caused by a variety of conditions including infection, autoimmune disorders, cancers, and chronic diseases. A lack of these proteins may be caused by many conditions including cancers, medicines, and chronic diseases

Rheumatoid factor

Used tohelp classify arthritis and diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Other tests are often used as well to classify and determine types of arthritis.

HLA (human leukocyte antigens) typing

Tested todetermine compatibility in organ, tissue, and bone marrowtransplantation. Also tested to determine paternity, and to diagnose HLA-related disorders such as certain autoimmune conditions.

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Immunology and Serology | Johns Hopkins Medicine Health Library