Immune System Deficiency Testing
Immune system deficiencies can be difficult to diagnose due to the wide range of possible causes. To determine if a person has an immune system deficiency, doctors typically use a combination of tests. These tests can include antibody tests, blood tests, skin tests, and imaging tests.
Antibody Tests Antibody tests measure the levels of antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to fight off infections. If the levels of antibodies are low, it may be an indication of an immune system deficiency.
Blood Tests Blood tests measure the levels of white blood cells in the body. White blood cells are an important part of the immune system that help fight off infections. Low levels of white blood cells can be a sign of an immune system deficiency.
Skin Tests Skin tests measure the body's response to certain substances. During a skin test, a doctor will inject a small amount of a substance, called an antigen, into the skin. If the body does not respond to the antigen, it may be an indication of an immune system deficiency.
Imaging Tests Imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, can be used to look for abnormalities in the immune system. These tests can help doctors identify if there is a problem with the immune system that is causing a deficiency.
In addition to these tests, doctors may also use other tests to help diagnose an immune system deficiency. These tests can include allergy tests, genetic tests, and tests to measure levels of certain hormones in the body.
By using a combination of these tests, doctors can determine if a person has an immune system deficiency and develop a treatment plan to address the issue.