One of the most important fields of study in medical science is to develop new and improved ways in which to diagnose diseases. The earlier a disease can be diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. Early diagnosis also improves the prognosis. This is why so many scientists concentrate upon the development of new and more efficient tests. One such test that has proven to be invaluable is the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. With ELISA kits doctors can now diagnose various conditions easily and efficiently.

EIA, as this technique is also known, is an extremely popular test. This is because it is so easy to carry out and as an added bonus large numbers of tests can be done at the same time. The purpose of the test is to find out what concentration of antigens or antibodies exists in a specific sample. Antigen and antibody concentrations are very important indicators in the diagnostic process.

The ability to identify the presence of either antibodies or antigens in the body is very important. This is because antigens are known to be harmful substances. As soon as the body recognizes the presence of antigens, it starts to produce antibodies to neutralize the harmful antigens. When either of these agents is present in a sample, the existence of a disease can be deduced logically.

There is no need to stress about this type of test. Patients are required to provide a small blood sample. This sample is then added to a petri dish that contains antigens typical to the condition for which the patient is tested. If the blood sample combines with the antigen, antibodies are present and this confirms the diagnosis. The amount of antibodies is determined by carefully adding enzymes to the sample.

A lot of information can be gained from an EIA test. This is true even when the simplest form of the test is used. Yet it is possible to administer more complex tests, such as the direct EIA test. In this case a multiwall coats the antigen. This makes it difficult for the antibody to recognize the antigen. Recognition only takes place when very specific enzymes are introduced.

Then there is the indirect EIA test. In this case the antigen is covered with a polystyrene plate that can only be detected in two distinct stages. The main advantage of this format of the test is that it offers increased sensitivity. Both primary and secondary antibodies can be identified. This entails cost savings and it may even eliminate the need for further tests.

The sandwich EIA test needs pairs of antibodies that are matched in pairs. The first antibody is coated with polystyrene. A second antibody then serves as the detection agent. The purpose of this test is to determine the concentration of the analyte. This test is extremely useful in the diagnosis of latent diseases and it is deemed to be highly accurate.

Nobody will deny the fact that one of the most important components of medical treatment is the ability to diagnose diseases. The earlier it is done the easier it is to treat and the better the prognosis will be. EIA offers hope to patients and it enables physicians to offer better chances.