A titre test, also known as an antibody titer test, measures the amount of antibodies present in your blood. It essentially determines the strength of your immune response to a specific antigen, such as a virus or bacteria.
The purpose of a titre test is to:
- Assess the effectiveness of a vaccination: It determines whether a vaccine has provided sufficient immunity against a particular disease.
- Monitor the progression of an infection: By tracking antibody levels over time, doctors can assess how well your body is fighting off an infection.
- Determine if you are immune to a disease: This information is valuable for individuals who have previously been exposed to an illness or have received a vaccination.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of immune globulin treatment: This is used to provide passive immunity against certain infections.
For example, if you have recently received a tetanus vaccine, a titre test can confirm if your body has produced enough antibodies to provide adequate protection. Similarly, if you have been exposed to measles, a titre test can help determine if you are immune to the disease.
The results of a titre test can help healthcare professionals make informed decisions about treatment and prevention strategies.
