HEMAGGLUTINATION TESTS Meaning and
Definition
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Hemagglutination tests, also known as hemagglutination inhibition tests, are laboratory diagnostic techniques used to detect the presence of specific antigens or antibodies in biological samples. The term "hemagglutination" refers to the clumping or agglutination of red blood cells (RBCs) by certain substances known as hemagglutinins.
In hemagglutination tests, the RBCs derived from animals or humans are usually utilized as a platform to detect the presence of specific target antigens or antibodies. The principle behind this technique is based on the ability of certain viruses, bacteria, or other substances to agglutinate or bind to RBCs, forming visible clumps. This agglutination reaction occurs when the target antigen or antibody interacts with specific receptors on the surface of RBCs.
Hemagglutination tests can be employed to detect a wide range of infectious diseases caused by viruses or bacteria. They are widely used in virology and serology laboratories for the diagnosis and surveillance of various viral infections, including influenza, measles, rubella, and hepatitis. These tests are also used for blood typing and cross-matching during blood transfusion processes.
The results of hemagglutination tests are interpreted based on the presence or absence of agglutination. Positive results, where agglutination is observed, indicate the presence of the target antigen or antibody in the sample. Conversely, negative results indicate the absence of the particular antigen or antibody being tested for.
Hemagglutination tests are valuable tools in the field of diagnostic medicine, allowing for rapid and accurate identification of specific antigens or antibodies in biological samples, thus aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of various infectious diseases.
Common Misspellings for HEMAGGLUTINATION TESTS
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Etymology of HEMAGGLUTINATION TESTS
The word "Hemagglutination" is derived from two parts: "hema" and "agglutination".
- "Hema" is derived from the Greek word "haima", meaning blood.
- "Agglutination" comes from the Latin word "agglutinare", which means to glue together or clump.
Therefore, the term "Hemagglutination" refers to the process of red blood cells clumping or sticking together.
The word "Tests" in "Hemagglutination Tests" refers to the scientific investigations or procedures carried out to determine the presence or absence of hemagglutination.
