Final answer:
The titration of IgG reactive antibodies is used to measure and monitor the levels of specific antibodies in a patient's serum, which can indicate the presence and phase of an infection, as well as the effectiveness of the immune response.
Step-by-step explanation:
Titration of IgG reactive antibodies is performed to measure the level of antibodies that are reactive against specific antigens in a patient’s serum. This process involves preparing serial dilutions of the patient’s serum to detect the presence and quantify the titer of agglutinating antibodies. By comparing antibody titers at different times, such as during the acute phase versus the convalescent phase of an infection, it’s possible to determine if an infection is current or past. This also allows monitoring of the immune response to a pathogen.
Agglutination assays, including those using latex beads, are used to detect antibodies like IgM, which provides maximum cross-linking and forms visible clumps when they bind their specific antigen. Techniques like indirect ELISA quantify antigen-specific antibodies by capturing them on microtiter plates and using a secondary antibody for detection.