Serology for tularemia

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Blood test

Overview

Risks

Results

Serology for tularemia

Definition:

This blood test looks for antibodies against Francisella tularensis, the bacteria that causes the disease tularemia.

Alternative Names:

Tularemia test; Serology for Francisella tularensis

How the test is performed:

An antibody defends the body against bacteria, viruses, fungus, or other foreign body (antigen). Certain cellstell the body to produce antibodies during an active infection.

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In the initial stage of an illness, few antibodies may be detected. Antibody production increases during the course of an infection. For this reason, such tests are often repeated several weeks after the first test is done.

Thistest specifically looks for the antibodies inthe clear liquid portion of the blood, whichis called the serum. (This technique is called serology.)

How to prepare for the test:

There is no special preparation.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

This blood test may be performed when tularemia is suspected.