Brucella Total Abs, (Rose Bengal) (BRU)

Price: 20 د.ا

The Brucella Total Abs (Rose Bengal) test, commonly referred to as the BRU test, is a serological diagnostic tool used to detect antibodies against Brucella species, which are the causative agents of brucellosis. Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection that affects various mammals, including humans, and is primarily acquired through contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated animal products.

Function in the Body

The primary function of the Brucella Total Abs (Rose Bengal) test is to identify the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to Brucella infection. The Rose Bengal test is a rapid, simple, and cost-effective method used to screen for brucellosis. It involves mixing a patient’s serum with a Rose Bengal-stained Brucella antigen and observing for agglutination, which indicates the presence of specific antibodies against Brucella.

Symptoms of Deficiency

Brucella Total Abs (Rose Bengal) test measures antibodies, not nutrients or elements within the body. Therefore, there are no deficiency symptoms associated with the test itself. However, the lack of early detection and treatment of brucellosis can lead to significant health issues.

Symptoms of Overdose

As the BRU test is a diagnostic tool, the concept of an “overdose” is not applicable. However, excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics, which are used to treat brucellosis, can lead to antibiotic resistance and other adverse effects.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of brucellosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. The Rose Bengal test is often used as an initial screening test due to its high sensitivity. Positive results should be confirmed with more specific tests such as the Serum Agglutination Test (SAT), Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), or Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

1. Rose Bengal Test (RBT): Detects agglutinating antibodies and is used for screening.
2. Serum Agglutination Test (SAT): Measures the quantity of agglutinating antibodies.
3. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Detects specific IgG and IgM antibodies.
4. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Identifies Brucella DNA in blood or tissue samples.

 Normal Range

The BRU test does not provide a quantitative result but rather a qualitative one (positive or negative for Brucella antibodies). Therefore, there is no “normal range” for antibody levels as with some other blood tests. The interpretation is based on the presence or absence of agglutination.

 What Causes Brucella?

Brucella bacteria are primarily transmitted to humans through:

1. Ingestion of Contaminated Animal Products: Consuming unpasteurized milk, cheese, or undercooked meat from infected animals.
2. Direct Contact with Infected Animals: Handling animals or animal tissues, especially in occupational settings such as farming, veterinary practice, and meat processing.
3. Inhalation of Aerosols: Rare but possible in laboratory settings or through the air in environments with a high concentration of infected animals.

How to Prevent Brucella?

Prevention of brucellosis involves several strategies to reduce the risk of infection:

1. Avoiding Consumption of Unpasteurized Dairy Products: Ensure milk and dairy products are pasteurized before consumption.
2. Proper Cooking of Meat: Cook meat thoroughly to kill any bacteria present.
3. Occupational Safety: Use protective gear and follow safety protocols when handling animals or animal products, especially in high-risk occupations.
4. Vaccination of Animals: Vaccinating livestock against brucellosis can reduce the incidence of the disease in animals, thereby lowering the risk of transmission to humans.
5. Public Health Measures: Regular surveillance and control programs for brucellosis in livestock, and educating the public and high-risk groups about the disease and its transmission.

More Information:

Brucellosis remains a significant public health issue in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with less stringent animal health regulations. The disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe, chronic disease affecting multiple organs. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing brucellosis and preventing complications.

By understanding and implementing effective prevention and control measures, the burden of brucellosis can be significantly reduced, protecting both human and animal health.

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