Serum Cold Agglutinins determination is used as a complementary test for the diagnosis of atypical Mycoplasma pneumonia and for the investigation of certain haemolytic anemia.
More information
Adhesins are generally called antibodies that cause the red blood cells to aggregate or agglutinate. These antibodies can cause hemolytic anemia. It is important to know what kind of adhesins cause hemolytic anemia so that proper treatment can be started. Formation of cold agglutinins is active at low temperatures. These antibodies, which are predominantly of the IgM class, are more active at temperatures below 37 ° C, and therefore the term "cold" is used.
The test is used to diagnose haemolytic anemia due to the presence of psycho-adhesions (psycho-adhesion disease) and is often used to indirectly diagnose atypical pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Cold agglutinin levels usually rise 8 to 10 days after the onset of atypical pneumonia, peak 12 to 25 days thereafter, and begin to decline 30 days after the onset.
Antibiotics can affect the production of cold agglutinins.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Hemolytic anemia, Hodgkin's disease, infectious mononucleosis, lymphoma, malaria, multiple myeloma, atypical pneumonia from Mycoplasma pneumoniae, scleroderma, syphilis cirrhosis, viral pneumonia
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
