Indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) tests

Definition

Indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) tests are a diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of specific antibodies in a patient’s serum. The technique involves binding antibodies to antigens on a slide and using a secondary, fluorescently-labeled antibody to visualize the interaction under a microscope.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. IFA tests are commonly used for diagnosing autoimmune diseases and infections.
2. The test involves two steps: primary antibody binding followed by secondary antibody detection with fluorescence.
3. Fluorescence microscopy is required to read and interpret IFA test results.
4. The specificity of the test depends on the antigen-antibody interaction, which can reduce cross-reactivity.
5. Proper controls must be included in IFA tests to ensure accurate interpretation.

Review Questions

Related terms

Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) Test: A diagnostic method that uses a single fluorescently labeled antibody to detect antigens directly.

Antigen-Antibody Interaction: A specific chemical interaction between an antigen and an antibody that forms the basis for immune assays.

Immunofluorescence:

A technique used to visualize the location of antibodies or antigens in tissues using fluorescence-labeled antibodies.