ANTISERUM Meaning and
Definition
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Antiserum is a noun that refers to a blood serum containing specific antibodies that are used to neutralize or counteract the effects of toxins or poisons produced by bacteria or other foreign substances in the body. It is typically produced by injecting a particular antigen, such as a toxin or a harmful substance, into an animal to stimulate an immune response, leading to the production of antibodies against that antigen. The antibodies are then extracted from the animal's blood and purified to create the antiserum.
Antiserum is commonly used in the medical field as a treatment for various infections or poisonous bites. When administered to a patient, the antibodies in the antiserum bind to the toxins or antigens present in the body, thereby neutralizing their harmful effects and aiding in recovery. This process is known as passive immunization, as the patient receives pre-formed antibodies rather than producing them naturally.
Antiserum is typically specific to a particular antigen or pathogen, meaning that it is effective against a specific type or strain of bacteria or virus. Multiple antiserums may be needed to cover a wide range of pathogens. Additionally, its effectiveness can vary depending on factors such as the dosage, timing of administration, and the individual patient's immune response.
In summary, antiserum is a specialized blood serum containing antibodies produced in response to a specific antigen, used to counteract the effects of toxins or pathogens within the body. It plays a valuable role in the passive immunization and treatment of various infections and toxicities.
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A serum containing an antibody (antitoxin, bacteriolysin, precipitin, etc.) which is specific in relation to the substance in response to repeated injections of which it has been produced.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ANTISERUM
Etymology of ANTISERUM
The word "antiserum" is composed of two parts: "anti-" and "serum".
The prefix "anti-" comes from Ancient Greek "antí", meaning "against" or "opposite". In English, it is commonly used to indicate opposition or negation.
The term "serum" comes from the Latin word "serum", which means "whey" or "the whey of milk". In medical and scientific contexts, "serum" refers to the liquid part of blood after coagulation or the clear, yellowish fluid obtained from it.
So, when combined, "antiserum" refers to a substance or fluid that acts against, neutralizes, or opposes the effects of a specific serum or toxin. In medicine, antiserum is often used as a treatment to counteract the effects of venom or to provide passive immunity against a particular disease.
Similar spelling words for ANTISERUM
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