serology

Advanced 🏥 Healthcare / Medical

Definition

The scientific study of blood serum, particularly the immune system's antibody responses. Detective work using your blood's memory of past infections.

Example Usage

Serology confirmed acute hepatitis A infection based on the presence of IgM antibodies.

Origin

From Latin 'serum' (whey) and Greek 'logos' (study)

Fun Fact

Serology was crucial for COVID-19 research, helping scientists understand immunity duration and reinfection rates through antibody testing.

Source: Laboratory medicine and immunology terminology

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