Tetanus antibodies
| Category | Immunology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Tetanus antibodies are measured as part of an immune deficiency screen for patients with opportunistic or recurrent infections. They have no value in tetanus disease diagnosis. Tetanus antibodies are used as a measurement of the T-cell-dependent response to protein. They are recall antigens requiring prior immunisation. Patients under 4 months old or the elderly may have absent or low responses due to insufficient immunisation. |
| Clinical Indications |
Assessment of an antibody response to tetanus toxoid vaccine |
| Reference range | Minimum protective level >0.15 IU/mL (reference range verified in house) |
| Sample & container required | Serum (RST rust top) |
| Sample volume | 5-10 mL blood (1 mL serum) |
| Turnaround time | 14 days |