IgG is an antibody, which is a type of protein made by the immune system in response to an infection or other foreign substance in the body. IgG antibodies are the most common type of antibody in the body and are found in all body fluids. A positive IgG test result indicates that the person has been exposed to a particular infection and has developed antibodies to it.
What Does an IgG Positive Mean?
A positive IgG test result means that the person has been exposed to a particular infection at some point in their life. It does not necessarily mean that the person is currently infected, as the body can continue to produce IgG antibodies and remain in the bloodstream for many years after the initial infection has been cleared.
What is IgG Used For?
IgG tests are used to help diagnose and monitor certain infections, such as HIV, hepatitis, and measles. They can also help determine if a person has had a prior infection and has developed immunity, which is helpful in the diagnosis of certain autoimmune disorders.
What is the Difference Between IgG and IgM?
IgG and IgM are both antibodies produced by the immune system. IgG is the most common type of antibody, and it is found in all body fluids. IgM antibodies are the first line of defense against infection, and they are found in the blood and lymphatic system. IgM antibodies are usually produced within the first week of infection, and they decline in number as the IgG antibodies take over.