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🦠microbiology review

Indirect agglutination assay

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

An indirect agglutination assay is a laboratory technique used to detect antibodies or antigens by their ability to cause agglutination, using particles like latex beads coated with specific antigens or antibodies. This method enhances the visibility of the reaction and is commonly used in diagnosing infectious diseases.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Indirect agglutination assays utilize particles such as latex beads to enhance the detection of antigen-antibody reactions.
  2. This assay can be used to detect either antibodies or antigens in a patient's sample.
  3. It is widely used for diagnosing infectious diseases, including bacterial and viral infections.
  4. The sensitivity of indirect agglutination assays can be higher than direct agglutination methods due to the amplification effect provided by the coated particles.
  5. Proper controls are essential to distinguish between true positive reactions and non-specific agglutination.

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