Nephelometry

It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Nephelometer. (Discuss)

The introduction to this article provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject. Please help improve the article with a good introductory style. (December 2007)

Nephelometry is a technique used in immunology to determine levels of IgM, IgG, and IgA.^[1]

It is performed by shining light on a sample, and measuring the amount of light scattered.^[2]

This technique is widely used in clinical laboratories because it is relatively easily automated. It is based on the principle that a dilute suspension of small particles will scatter light (usually a laser) passed through it rather than simply absorbing it. The amount of scatter is determined by collecting the light at an angle (usually about 70 or 75 degrees).

Antibody and the antigen are mixed in concentrations such that only small aggregates are formed that do not quickly settle to the bottom. The amount of light scatter is measured and compared to the amount of scatter from known mixtures. The amount of the unknown is determined from a standard curve.

References

1. ^ MedlinePlus Encyclopedia 003545
2. ^ Overview at mcg.edu

This immunology article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. v • d • e