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Viral and Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch
Q fever
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Viral and Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch Q fever VRZB Home | DVRD Home | NCID Home |
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antibody: specialized serum protein produced by B lymphocytes in response to an exposure to foreign proteins or modified natural proteins (both act as antigens). The antibodies produced specifically bind to the antigens that induced the immune response. These are also called immunoglobulins or gamma globulins. endocarditis: inflammation of the heart valves. hepatitis: inflammation of the liver. immunity: protection against an infectious disease either by natural immune system response or an induced response following a previous infection. immunohistochemical staining: a laboratory process of detecting an organism in tissues with antibodies. These antibodies are labeled with a compound that is seen as a colored deposit when viewed microscopically. incubation period: the interval of time between infection by a microorganism and the first signs or symptoms of the illness. indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA): a laboratory test used to detect antibodies to an organism in serum or other body fluid. The specific antibodies are labeled with a compound that makes them glow an apple-green color when observed microscopically under ultraviolet light. malaise: a feeling of bodily discomfort and fatigue. myalgia: pain in a muscle or muscles. pasteurization: the process of heating milk or other liquids to destroy microorganisms that can cause disease or spoilage. serology: the branch of science dealing with the measurement and characterization of antibodies and other immunological substances in body fluids, particularly serum. thrombocytopenia: low platelet count.
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VRZB Home | DVRD Home | NCID Home CDC Home | Search | Health Topics A-Z This page last reviewed August 10, 2000 Centers
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