Purpose: Detects and measures specific proteins, hormones, or antibodies in blood or other body fluids using antigen-antibody reactions.
Technology: Uses methods like ELISA, chemiluminescence, or fluorescence to produce measurable signals.
Use Cases:
Diagnosing infections (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis)
Hormonal testing (e.g., TSH, hCG)
Tumor marker detection
Types: Can be fully automated, semi-automated, or manual.
Setting: Commonly used in hospital labs, diagnostic centers, and research labs.