Using Immunoassay Technology to Analyze Disease States

17 Feb 2015
Sonia Nicholas
Managing Editor and Clinical Lead

Immunoassays are used to quantify proteins, hormones and antibodies in order for clinicians to identify and assess stages and progression of disease states. Modern immunoassay analyzers are capable of providing highly sensitive and specific quantitative results for large numbers of samples.

There are analyzers on the market that are suitable for every sized laboratory, from small point-of-care systems to large, high throughput, automated platforms.

Common Disease States

Bone metabolism: Immunoassays measuring calcium and phosphorous regulation (including parathyroid hormone –PTH, Vitamin D, Ostase and calcitonin) can be used to identify disorders such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, Paget disease and hyperparathyroidism.

Cardiovascular disease: The rapid diagnosis of cardiovascular disease is an essential factor in patient survival and subsequent care. This involves identifying important risk factors and estimating cardiovascular risk. Many immunoassay systems offer a cardiac panel (including CK-MB, Troponin and Myoglobin) which, along with other clinical chemistry and hematology tests, can enable clinicians to make quick, informed decisions.

Thyroid disorders: These disorders range in severity from very mild to life threatening. They can also affect patients in any age group. Immunoassays are used to measure markers such as thyroglobulin, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), FT4 and FT3, as well as anti-thyroid peroxidise (Anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (Anti-Tg).

Anemia: The causes of anemia are far ranging. Immunoassays can help clinicians who are carrying out in-depth investigations following haematological tests, into the causes of anemia, such as screening for vitamin B12, folate, and ferritin deficiency.

Immunoassay Technology

Available immunoassay methodologies include Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Radioimmunoassays (RIA), Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay (FPIA) and Chemiluminescence Immunoassay. You can learn more about these technologies in our exclusive Immunoassay Analyzers for Disease States Buying Guide, along with product videos, directory links and scientists reviews.

Download your Immunoassay Analyzers for Disease States Buying Guide

Visit the Immunoassay Product Directory

Other Buying Guides in the clinical series include:

Clinical Laboratory Automation
• Hematology Analyzers
Clinical Chemistry Analyzers
Blood Bank Analyzers

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