What is an Antigen Test?
Antigen tests (also known as rapid diagnostic tests) are a type of diagnostic test used to detect the presence of a specific antigen in the body. These tests typically work by the antigen being bound to a specific antibody, and a color change, or some other signal, is used to indicate the presence of the antigen. Antigen tests are commonly used for a variety of reasons, such as diagnosing infectious diseases, determining if a person has been exposed to a certain virus, and identifying allergens.

How do Antigen Tests Work?
Antigen tests work by detecting the presence of a specific antigen, usually a protein, in biological samples like blood, saliva, or urine. The antigen is typically bound to a specific antibody, which binds to it if the antigen is present in the sample. When the antigen is bound to the antibody, it can be identified by a color change, specific fluorescent or phosphorescent properties, or other forms of signal. These changes indicate the presence of the antigen in the sample.

Uses for Antigen Tests
Antigen tests have a variety of uses in the medical and research fields. One of the most common uses is to diagnose infectious diseases and other illnesses. They can also be used to identify allergens in a sample, which can help in diagnosing and treating allergies. Additionally, they can be used to determine if a person has been exposed to a certain virus, as many viruses carry certain antigens that can be detected using antigen tests.