A Measles Immunity Test (IgG) is a laboratory test that measures the level of measles-specific antibodies (IgG) in an individual's blood. The test is used to determine if a person has developed immunity to measles, either through vaccination or natural infection.
IgG (Immunoglobulin G) is a type of antibody that is produced by the immune system in response to infection or vaccination. It is the most common type of antibody in the blood and plays a crucial role in providing long-term immunity against infections.
The Measles Immunity Test (IgG) involves collecting a blood sample from the individual being tested. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
In the laboratory, the blood sample is mixed with a measles antigen (a substance that triggers an immune response). The sample is then incubated with the antigen, allowing the IgG antibodies to bind to the antigen.
The amount of IgG antibodies bound to the antigen is measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or another similar technique. The results are expressed as a titer, which is a measure of the concentration of IgG antibodies, with a positive or negative outcome.
The Measles Immunity Test (IgG) has several advantages: It is a non-invasive test that requires only a blood sample, it is accurate and reliable in detecting measles immunity, it can be used to identify individuals who are at risk of measles infection due to lack of immunity.
This test is recommended in situations where measles immunity needs to be confirmed, such as: in healthcare settings where measles outbreaks have occurred, in areas where measles vaccination rates are low, for individuals who have travelled to areas where measles outbreaks are common, for individuals who have not received two doses of measles vaccine and are unsure about their immunity.
USLABTESTING