Brucella IgG Test: A Reliable Diagnostic Tool for Brucellosis

The Brucella IgG test, developed by Pishtaz Teb from Iran, is a serological test designed to diagnose brucellosis. Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by various Brucella species and can have severe consequences on both animals and humans.

Zoonotic Disease Caused by Different Brucella Species

Brucellosis can infect multiple animal species, leading to adverse effects such as abortion, reduced milk production, and sterility. Humans are at risk of contracting the disease through the consumption of raw or undercooked milk or meat products derived from infected animals. Individuals with severe anemia or recent stomach surgery, resulting in reduced peptic acid secretion, are particularly susceptible to infection. Furthermore, individuals with high exposure to animals, including farmers, butchers, veterinarians, and those who have traveled to endemic areas, are more prone to brucellosis.

Detecting IgG Antibodies Specific to Brucella Antigens

The Brucella IgG test works by identifying the presence of IgG antibodies that are specific to Brucella antigens. During the course of the infection, IgM antibodies rise towards the end of the second week, followed by IgG and IgA antibodies. Effective therapy leads to a decrease in IgM antibody levels, while IgG antibody titers remain unchanged.

A More Efficient Alternative to Culture-Based Diagnosis

While culture-based diagnosis, which involves isolating bacteria, is considered the gold standard for diagnosing brucellosis, it has certain limitations. Serological tests, such as the Brucella IgG test, have gained popularity due to their shorter turnaround time and higher sensitivity.

Primary Screening Tests and Confirmatory ELISA Test

Primary screening tests for brucellosis, such as agglutination tests, have limitations including prolonged test procedures, low specificity, and the inability to differentiate between different antibody classes. These tests often use a single antigen (Brucella abortus) and may not detect reactions in cases of Brucella melitensis infection. Additionally, the presence of blocking antibodies can lead to false-negative results.

To overcome these limitations, confirmatory tests like the ELISA test have become more prevalent. The ELISA test offers high sensitivity and specificity, is unaffected by blocking antibodies, has a simple and short test procedure, and utilizes both Brucella abortus and B. melitensis antigens. It also has the capability to distinguish between different antibody classes.

An Efficient and Reliable Method for Brucellosis Diagnosis

The Brucella IgG test developed by Pishtaz Teb provides an efficient and reliable diagnostic method for identifying brucellosis. Its ability to detect specific IgG antibodies, combined with its high sensitivity and specificity, makes it an invaluable tool in diagnosing this zoonotic disease. With its shorter turnaround time compared to culture-based methods, the Brucella IgG test offers a practical solution for timely diagnosis and effective management of brucellosis.