WIDAL TEST Meaning and
Definition
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The Widal test is a diagnostic test used to detect and identify the presence of antibodies specific to Salmonella enterica bacteria in a patient's blood. It is primarily employed in the diagnosis of typhoid fever and other diseases caused by Salmonella infection.
The test is named after its developer, Georges-Fernand Widal, a French physician who introduced it in 1896. It is considered a serological test as it relies on the reaction between the patient's serum and specific antigens derived from Salmonella bacteria.
During the Widal test, the patient's blood sample is collected and mixed with a solution containing inactivated Salmonella antigens. These antigens stimulate the production of antibodies if the patient has been previously exposed to Salmonella bacteria. The reaction is detected by observing agglutination, which is the clumping together of bacteria and antibodies. Agglutination occurs when antibodies present in the patient's serum bind to the Salmonella antigens, forming visible clumps.
The results of the Widal test are interpreted by measuring the agglutination reaction at several dilutions of the patient's serum. A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies in the patient's blood, suggesting an ongoing or previous Salmonella infection. However, it is essential to consider clinical symptoms and other laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis, as false-positive results may occur due to cross-reactivity with other bacteria.
The Widal test is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of typhoid fever and helps in guiding appropriate treatment and preventive measures.
Common Misspellings for WIDAL TEST
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Etymology of WIDAL TEST
The word "Widal test" is named after its developer, Georges-Fernand-Isidor Widal, a French physician. He first described the test in 1896 as a way to diagnose typhoid fever.
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