What is an Antibody Test?
An antibody test is a type of medical test used to detect the presence of antibodies to a particular virus or other pathogen in a person's blood. Antibodies are proteins produced by the body's immune system in response to the presence of a foreign substance such as a virus, bacteria, or other microorganism. The purpose of an antibody test is to determine whether a person has been exposed to a particular virus or other pathogen and may be at risk for developing an associated illness.
How Does an Antibody Test Work?
An antibody test involves taking a blood sample from the person being tested and looking for the presence of antibodies to a particular virus or other pathogen. If antibodies are present, it indicates that the person has been exposed to the virus or other pathogen in the past. The results of an antibody test can be used to diagnose an infection, determine if someone is at risk for developing an associated illness, or determine whether a person has recovered from an infection.
Why Does an Antibody Test Come Out Positive?
A positive antibody test result indicates that the person has been exposed to the virus or other pathogen in the past. Some people may have already recovered from the infection and no longer have symptoms, while others may still be actively infected and contagious. It is important to note that a positive antibody test does not necessarily mean that the person is currently infected.