Bacterial Diagnostic Assay Reflex Panel

The Bacterial Diagnostic Assay Reflex Panel panel contains 4 tests with 5 biomarkers.

Name: Bacterial Diagnostic Assay Reflex Panel

Tests Included:

• Anti-Streptolysin O Antibody (ASO)
• Dnase B Antibody
• Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Antibodies (IgG, IgM)
• Lyme Disease Ab with Reflex to Blot (IgG, IgM)

If Lyme Disease Antibody Screen is ≥0.90, then Lyme Disease Antibodies (IgG, IgM), Immunoblot will be performed at an additional charge of $63

Description:

The Bacteria Panel is an advanced diagnostic panel designed to identify and quantify specific antibodies produced in response to bacterial infections. These antibodies are indicative of exposure or infection with particular bacterial pathogens. This panel helps in early diagnosis, treatment guidance, and monitoring of bacterial infections.

• Anti-Streptolysin O Antibody (ASO): An antibody produced in response to an infection with Group A Streptococcus bacteria, commonly causing strep throat or rheumatic fever. Elevated levels can indicate a recent or current infection.

• Dnase B Antibody: This antibody is another marker of infection by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. It's especially useful in cases where ASO levels may not be elevated, such as rheumatic fever.

• Lyme Disease Ab with Reflex to Blot (IgG, IgM): A two-tiered test approach to confirm the presence of antibodies against the bacteria causing Lyme disease. Initial screening detects antibodies, and if positive or equivocal, a confirmatory Western Blot test is performed.

• Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Antibodies (IgG, IgM): Indicates exposure or infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a common cause of atypical pneumonia. The test distinguishes between recent (IgM) and past (IgG) infections.

Purpose:

This Bacteria Panel is valuable for:

1. Diagnosing Bacterial Infections and Assessing Their Severity:

The Bacteria Panel plays a pivotal role in the early and accurate diagnosis of bacterial infections. By identifying specific antibodies associated with certain bacterial pathogens, clinicians can determine not only the presence of an infection but also gain insights into its progression. Elevated levels of specific antibodies can indicate an active or recent infection, while the presence of other types of antibodies might suggest a past infection. Understanding the stage and severity of the infection helps healthcare professionals decide on the most appropriate intervention, be it immediate treatment or further diagnostic tests.

2. Guiding Treatment Decisions Based on Identified Antibodies:

Once a bacterial infection is diagnosed, the type and levels of antibodies present can provide crucial information for treatment choices. Some bacterial infections require aggressive antibiotic regimens, while others may benefit from a more conservative approach. Knowing the exact bacterial pathogen and the body's immune response to it allows healthcare professionals to tailor treatment strategies, ensuring that patients receive the most effective care while minimizing potential side effects or antibiotic resistance.

3. Monitoring the Body's Immune Response to Infections:

The Bacteria Panel doesn't just offer a snapshot of the body's current state; it also provides valuable data on how the immune system is reacting over time. Regular monitoring of antibody levels can show how well the body is responding to treatment and if the immune system is effectively combatting the infection. A declining level of specific antibodies might indicate successful treatment, while persistently high or increasing levels could suggest treatment resistance or complications.

4. Evaluating the Possibility of Re-infections or Complications Related to These Bacterial Pathogens:

Some bacterial infections can recur or cause long-term complications if not adequately addressed. For instance, infections like Lyme disease can have lingering symptoms even after the bacteria are eradicated. By tracking specific antibodies over time, the Bacteria Panel can help clinicians identify patients at risk for re-infections or those who might be experiencing post-infection complications. Early identification of these risks ensures timely interventions and reduces the potential for more severe health issues in the future.

In summary, the Bacteria Panel is not just a diagnostic tool but a comprehensive guide for clinicians. It offers insights into the nature and progression of bacterial infections, enabling personalized patient care and optimizing treatment outcomes.