Introduction
Immunology laboratory tests are performed to understand the function of immune response. These help in monitoring the progression of an existing condition and causes for various immune-related conditions.
Definition
Immunological assessment is a diagnostic method for detecting the immune-mediated response caused by antigen-antibody reactions.
Purpose
- To detect specific protein and antibodies (immunoglobulins) in the blood and tissue, and to diagnose the cause for immune disease (hypo or hyper).
Health History & Risk Factors
- Age & Life Stage: Infants and elderly patients have naturally weaker immune responses.
- Infection History: Recurrent, severe, or unusual infections may indicate immune dysfunction.
- Vaccination Status: Incomplete or ineffective responses to vaccines can signal immunodeficiency.
- Chronic Illnesses: Diabetes, renal failure, HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, and cancer can impair immunity.
- Medications: Immunosuppressants (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy) and biologics affect immune function.
- Surgical History: Splenectomy or organ transplants alter immune surveillance.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol, poor nutrition, stress, and sleep deprivation suppress immunity.
Laboratory Tests for Immune Function
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| CBC with Differential | Evaluates WBC count and types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.) |
| Immunoglobulin Levels (IgG, IgA, IgM) | Assesses humoral immunity and antibody production |
| T- and B-cell Subsets (CD4/CD8 Ratio) | Evaluates cellular immunity and immune balance |
| Complement Levels (C3, C4) | Detects deficiencies in innate immunity |
| ANA, RF, and Autoantibodies | Screens for autoimmune disorders |
| HIV Testing | Identifies acquired immunodeficiency |
| Cytokine Panels | Measures inflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) |
| Vaccine Titers | Assesses immune memory and response to immunization |
Physical Examination
- Skin & Mucosa: Look for rashes, ulcers, delayed healing, or signs of infection.
- Lymph Nodes: Palpate for enlargement, tenderness, or asymmetry.
- Respiratory & GI Systems: Chronic cough, diarrhea, or oral thrush may indicate immune compromise.
- Neurological Signs: Confusion or weakness may signal systemic infection in immunocompromised patients.
Special Considerations
- Pediatrics: Immune system still developing—frequent infections may be normal, but patterns matter.
- Geriatrics: Reduced T-cell function, altered vaccine response, and increased cancer risk.
- Immunocompromised Patients: Require tailored assessments, including infection surveillance and prophylaxis review.
- Transplant Recipients: Monitor for rejection signs and opportunistic infections.
REFERENCES
- Annamma Jacob, Rekha, Jhadav Sonali Tarachand: Clinical Nursing Procedures: The Art of Nursing Practice, 5th Edition, March 2023, Jaypee Publishers, ISBN-13: 978-9356961845 ISBN-10: 9356961840
- Omayalachi CON, Manual of Nursing Procedures and Practice, Vol 1, 3 Edition 2023, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN: 978-9393553294
- Sandra Nettina, Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 11th Edition, January 2019, Published by Wolters Kluwers, ISBN-13:978-9388313285
- Adrianne Dill Linton, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 8th Edition, 2023, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323826716
- Donna Ignatavicius, Medical-Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Clinical Judgment and Collaborative Care, 11th Edition ,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323878265
- Lewis’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, 12th Edition,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323789615
- AACN Essentials of Critical Care Nursing, 5th Ed. Sarah. Delgado, 2023, Published by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses ISBN: 978-1264269884
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