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 Aiding the diagnosis of immunodeficiency (acquired, congenital or iatrogenic, ie. following administration of immunosuppressive agents) |
| Reference range | Minimum protective level >0.15IU/mL |
| Sample & container required | RST (rust top) |
| Sample volume | 5-10 mL (1 mL serum) |
| Turnaround time | 14 days |
| Notes | This test is currently unaccredited due to a recent change in platform. |