Information AboutSero-conversion |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT SEROCONVERSION | |
| serology | |
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The word is often used in reference to blood testing for anti- HIV antibodies. BACKGROUND The Immune System maintains an "immunological memory" against past pathogens to facilitate early detection and to confer protective immunity against a rechallenge. This explains why many childhood diseases never recur in adulthood (and when they do, it generally indicates Immunosuppression ). During a primary immune response, both IgG and IgM Immunoglobulin s are produced. After the initial phase of the infection, IgM levels drop (and become undetectable) but IgG levels remain detectable. Upon reinfection, IgM levels rise again. IgG levels can increase slightly, but an elevated IgG titre cannot reveal whether the infection is recent or currently active. Presence of IgM is a sign of current or recent infections. Presence of IgG suggests past infection or Immunization . |
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