Description
Overview: Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection (spread from animals to humans) caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. The body produces different antibodies to fight the infection. IgM antibodies are the “first responders,” appearing within the first week of infection. A positive IgM result strongly suggests a current, acute infection.
Clinical Significance:
-
Acute Diagnosis: IgM antibodies rise early in the disease course. Detecting them is critical for diagnosing the infection in its initial, often vague stages.
-
Differentiating Stages: This test is often paired with the Brucella IgG test.
-
High IgM / Low IgG: Recent/Acute infection.
-
Low IgM / High IgG: Chronic or Past infection (or previous exposure).
-
-
Symptom Correlation: It helps identify the cause of “Undulant Fever” (fever that rises and falls like a wave), profuse night sweats, and severe joint pain (arthralgia).
When is this test recommended?
-
If you have persistent fever, night sweats, or back/joint pain with no obvious cause.
-
If you have consumed raw (unpasteurized) milk, cheese, or dairy products.
-
If you work in high-risk occupations: veterinarians, farmers, slaughterhouse workers, or lab personnel.
Sample Requirements:
-
Specimen: Serum (Blood).
-
Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
-
Preparation: No special preparation or fasting is required.
