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Red Cell Calcium

The Rickettsia Antibody Test is an essential diagnostic tool for detecting infections caused by the Rickettsia genus, including species like *Rickettsia rickettsii*, *Rickettsia akari*, and *Rickettsia typhi*. These infections, often transmitted through tick bites, can lead to serious conditions such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Rickettsial pox. The test identifies IgG and IgM antibodies in the patient's serum, with IgG indicating past or current infections and IgM suggesting recent infections. A positive IgG titer of 1:256 or higher is considered evidence of recent or current infection, while IgM titers of 1:64 or higher suggest recent infection. The test uses indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) technology and requires careful interpretation due to potential cross-reactivity and the transient nature of antibodies. Despite its limitations, the Rickettsia Antibody Test is invaluable for timely diagnosis and management of tick-borne diseases, aiding healthcare providers in reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.

Price of test:£42

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £42

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The Rickettsia Antibody Test is essential for diagnosing infections from the Rickettsia genus, including tick-borne diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It detects IgG and IgM antibodies in serum, aiding in identifying past or recent infections. Key points include:

- IgG Antibodies: A titer of 1:256 or higher indicates recent infection. A 4-fold increase between samples confirms infection.
- IgM Antibodies: A titer of 1:64 or higher suggests recent infection but may persist post-infection.
- Clinical Considerations: Diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms; seroconversion is crucial.
- Methodology: Uses indirect fluorescent antibody technology.
- Limitations: Initial negative results don't exclude diagnosis; repeat testing is advised.

Who Should Get Tested

The calcium blood test is essential for diagnosing calcium imbalances. It helps assess conditions like hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia. Key points include:

- Purpose: Evaluates calcium's role in bone health, heart function, and nerve signaling.
- Preparation: Avoid certain medications and excessive dairy or vitamin D intake.
- Procedure: A quick blood draw from the arm.
- Normal Results: 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL.
- Abnormal Results: Indicate conditions like hyperparathyroidism or vitamin D deficiency.
- Risks: Minor, including bleeding or infection.

Consult your healthcare provider for interpretation and guidance.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results for the Rickettsia Antibody Test is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of rickettsial infections. Here's a concise guide:

- IgG Antibodies:
- Positive results with a titer of 1:256 or higher indicate recent or current infection.
- Titers between 1:64 and 1:256 suggest past infection or early response.
- A 4-fold increase in IgG titer confirms recent infection.

- IgM Antibodies:
- A titer of 1:64 or higher suggests recent infection.
- IgM levels are transient, declining within 3 months post-treatment.

Interpreting these results helps in differentiating between past and current infections, guiding effective treatment strategies.

Price of test:£42

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £42

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

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Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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