IgG/IgM Antibodies

IgG/IgM antibodies are two classes of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infections. These antibodies are commonly tested to determine if a person has been exposed to a particular pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria.

  • IgM (Immunoglobulin M): This is the first antibody produced by the immune system when a new infection occurs. Its presence indicates a recent or acute infection.
  • IgG (Immunoglobulin G): This is produced later during the course of an infection and can persist for a longer time, sometimes for years, indicating past exposure or long-term immunity.

Testing for IgG/IgM antibodies is often done in the context of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, dengue, or other viral/bacterial infections, to assess whether a person is currently infected (IgM) or has developed immunity (IgG).

Point-of-Care (POC) Benefits

Point-of-care (POC) testing refers to medical testing that is performed near or at the site of patient care, typically providing rapid results. POC tests for IgG/IgM antibodies (often in the form of rapid diagnostic tests) offer several benefits:

Rapid Results: Most POC IgG/IgM antibody tests provide results within 10-30 minutes, allowing immediate decision-making for treatment or isolation if needed.

Convenience: POC tests can be performed at clinics, hospitals, or even at home, eliminating the need to send samples to a central laboratory.

Early Detection: Detecting IgM antibodies can help identify acute infections early, allowing for quicker interventions and reducing the risk of transmission.

Monitoring Immunity: IgG testing helps assess whether someone has developed immunity from a past infection or vaccination, which is particularly useful for managing diseases like COVID-19.

Cost-effective: POC tests are generally cheaper than laboratory-based tests, reducing healthcare costs and improving accessibility.