Immunity tests

Are you curious about the Igra Test? If so, you're in the right place. In this blog, we'll uncover all the essential information and insights about the Igra Test that you need to know. We'll delve into Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) and help you understand what they are. You'll learn about the mechanisms behind IGRAs, including how they work, their advantages, and their limitations. We'll also walk you through the process of administering an IGRA Test, step by step. Plus, we'll decode the IGRA test results and explain how to interpret them. Additionally, we'll explore different scenarios for IGRA Test use and discuss why companies and the US Immigration Service require an IGRA test. Finally, we'll provide pre- and post-IGRA test guidelines to help you prepare for the test and know what to expect afterward. So let's dive in and get all your questions answered! Delving into Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) are diagnostic tests used for detecting tuberculosis (TB) infection. These tests work by measuring the immune response to specific antigens produced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes TB. Because IGRAs are more precise and are unaffected by the BCG vaccine or the majority of nontuberculous mycobacteria, they are superior to other tests. They play a crucial role in diagnosing mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, including latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), especially in individuals at higher risk, such as those with HIV or recent exposure to TB. Different types of IGRAs, like Quantiferon and T-SPOT.TB, have applications in clinical practice, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers regarding TB diagnosis and management. Understanding the interpretation and significance of IGRA test results is essential for accurate patient evaluation and appropriate intervention, making interferon-γ release assays an important tool in the fight against TB. Understanding the IGRA Test to detect tuberculosis An important way to find people who might still have tuberculosis is to do the IGRA test, also known as the interferon-gamma release assay. This blood test checks for the release of interferon-gamma in response to TB-specific antigens and is considered more specific than the tuberculin skin test. Unlike the skin test, the IGRA test does not cross-react with BCG or smallpox vaccinations. With just a single patient visit, the IGRA test provides results within 24-48 hours, making it a convenient option for individuals at high risk of TB exposure. This includes healthcare workers and those who have recently immigrated from countries with a high burden of TB. By understanding the IGRA test and its role in the diagnosis of tuberculosis, we can effectively identify and manage latent TB infections. The Mechanism behind IGRAs Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) are a type of blood test used to detect tuberculosis (TB) infection. They work by measuring the release of interferon-gamma, an immune reaction, when exposed to specific TB antigens, including ppd. This test offers several advantages over other TB testing methods. It is more specific than the tuberculin skin test (TST) and does not cross-react with the BCG vaccine, providing reliable results. The process of conducting an IGRA test involves collecting fresh blood samples and stimulating them with TB antigens. The results are then interpreted as either positive or negative for TB infection in any part of the body. However, IGRAs also have limitations and challenges, including false-positive results in patients with non-TB mycobacterial infections or immunosuppression. Despite these challenges, IGRAs play a crucial role in the diagnosis and control of TB, offering valuable insights for effective TB testing and management strategies. How does it work? The IGRA test detects tuberculosis infection by measuring the immune response to specific antigens. A small blood sample is mixed with TB antigens, and if the person has been exposed to TB, their immune system will produce a measurable reaction. Advantages and Limitations of IGRAs IGRAs offer distinct advantages over the tuberculin skin test (TST). They have higher specificity and sensitivity, leading to more accurate results, particularly in detecting latent tuberculosis infections. Another benefit is that IGRAs can detect both latent and active tuberculosis (TB) infections, providing comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. Additionally, IGRAs require only one patient visit and provide quicker test results compared to the TST. Unlike the skin test, IGRAs are unaffected by prior BCG vaccination, ensuring accurate results. However, it's essential to note that IGRAs have limitations in certain populations, such as immunocompromised individuals, which may affect their accuracy. Overall, IGRAs offer higher accuracy and a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing tuberculosis, making them a valuable tool in healthcare. The Process of Administering an IGRA Test The process of administering an IGRA test involves collecting a blood sample from the individual and stimulating the immune system to release interferon-gamma. This diagnostic test, which stands for Interferon-Gamma Release Assay, is used to detect latent tuberculosis infection. The collected blood sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the amount of interferon-gamma released by T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the body's immune system. This indicates the presence of a TB infection. Compared to traditional tuberculin skin tests, IGRA tests are considered more accurate and reliable. The results of the IGRA test can help healthcare professionals determine if further testing or treatment is necessary for the individual. Steps Involved in IGRA Testing The process of IGRA testing involves several steps. A health care professional first takes a blood sample from the patient. This blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. In the lab, the blood sample is exposed to specific antigens that stimulate an immune response. After an incubation period, the level of immune response is measured using specialized equipment. The results of the IGRA test, which can help diagnose tuberculosis infection, are typically available within a few days. By following these steps, healthcare professionals can gather valuable information about a patient's tuberculosis status. Decoding IGRA test results: Can a BCG vaccine affect results? The IGRA test, or Interferon-Gamma Release Assay, is a diagnostic test used to detect tuberculosis (TB) infection. It helps healthcare professionals interpret the results of the test, which can be positive, negative, or indeterminate, including a positive igra test. Factors such as the presence of HIV, BCG vaccination, and the progression from latent TB infection to active TB disease can affect the accuracy of the IGRA test results, leading to false-positive results. If you receive a positive or indeterminate IGRA test result, further testing and evaluation may be necessary. Compared to other tuberculosis diagnostic tests, the IGRA test has its advantages and limitations. How to Interpret IGRA Test Results Interpreting IGRA test results involves analyzing the immune responses to tuberculosis (TB) antigens. A positive result suggests a TB infection, while a negative result indicates no infection or early stages. Indeterminate results require further evaluation to determine the presence of TB bacteria. Scenarios for IGRA Test Use The IGRA test, also known as the interferon gamma release assay, is widely used for tuberculosis (TB) infection detection. Healthcare providers utilize the IGRA test to screen individuals at high risk for TB. It is often combined with other diagnostic methods, like the tuberculin skin test (TST). The IGRA test helps determine if a person has been exposed to TB bacteria and if treatment is needed. Particularly, it is valuable for individuals who have received the BCG vaccine, as it can differentiate between vaccine-related immunity and active TB infection. By assessing various scenarios, the IGRA test plays a crucial role in identifying and managing TB infections. Who should consider getting an IGRA test? Considering an IGRA test? It's recommended for those exposed to TB or at high risk of contracting it, as stated in the package insert for many biologics. This includes healthcare workers, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those in close quarters with someone with TB. Also used to screen for latent TB infection before immunosuppressive therapy. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if an IGRA test is right for you. Quest, a leading provider of medical tests, offers a Tuberculosis Blood Test for those who suspect they have been exposed to the disease or need evidence of a negative TB test. The company's test is also beneficial for individuals residing in high-risk areas for TB. The first test measures how much IFN-γ is made in response to ESAT-6 and CFP-10 antigens from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as stated in the package insert for the test. These antigens are different from those found in BCG and most other mycobacteria that are not tuberculous. Why do companies and the US immigration service require an IGRA TB test? Companies and the US Immigration Service require IGRA tests to screen for tuberculosis (TB) infection, an infectious disease, in the United States. TB is a contagious disease that poses a risk to public health. The IGRA test helps identify individuals exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and at risk of developing tuberculosis disease, ensuring the safety of employees, customers, and the public. Pre- and Post-IGRA Test Guidelines Pre- and Post-IGRA Test Guidelines: To ensure accurate results, it's important to follow certain guidelines before and after undergoing an IGRA test. Before the test, it's crucial to understand the purpose of the IGRA test, which is often recommended for individuals who have been exposed to tuberculosis (TB) or are at high risk of contracting TB. Pre-test guidelines include avoiding medications or substances that may affect the test results, as well as considering the potential adverse effects of TB treatment. During the test, be prepared for a blood test to detect the immune response to specific TB antigens. After the test, it's essential to interpret the results correctly and take any necessary follow-up steps. It's also important to consider the limitations and potential risks associated with the IGRA test, including the possibility of a false negative test result. Preparing for the IGRA Test When preparing for the IGRA test, it is important to follow certain guidelines. If applicable, fasting requirements should be adhered to before taking the test. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking. Before the test, avoid smoking or using any tobacco products, as they can potentially affect the results. It is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to the arm for blood sample collection. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water before the IGRA test is essential. By following these preparations, you can ensure accurate and reliable results. What should I expect after the test? After completing the Igra test, expect your results in a few days. Positive results may require further medical evaluation for tuberculosis. Negative results indicate no infection or an inactive infection. Follow up with a healthcare professional for next steps or treatment recommendations. How do you interpret IGRA test results? Interpreting IGRA test results involves measuring interferon-gamma (IFN-g) levels. A positive result suggests exposure to tuberculosis (TB), but not active TB disease. A negative result indicates no current TB infection or an inability to mount an immune response. Intermediate or indeterminate results may require further testing or clinical evaluation. How does the IGRA Test Impact Clinical Decisions? The IGRA test plays a crucial role in clinical decision-making for tuberculosis (TB). It helps healthcare providers determine the need for further testing or treatment by identifying TB infection through the presence of tuberculosis bacteria and assessing the risk of active TB disease. The results, along with other clinical information, guide healthcare providers in making informed decisions. Is the Quantiferon Gold Plus Test the Same as an IGRA Test or a TST? The Quantiferon Gold Plus Test is indeed a type of IGRA (Interferon-Gamma Release Assay) test, used to detect tuberculosis infection by measuring the immune response to TB antigens. It is an updated version of the original Quantiferon Gold Test and offers high accuracy and advantages over traditional tuberculin skin tests (TST). This makes it an essential screening test for patients who are about to begin biologic treatment or other forms of immunosuppressive therapy. What Happens If Your IGRA Test Results Are Positive? If your IGRA test results are positive, it means you have been exposed to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). Further testing, like a chest X-ray, is done to confirm active TB disease. Positive results without active TB may require preventive treatment. Consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance. Where Can You Buy an Affordable IGRA Test Near You? Discounted Labs sells the most affordable IGRA test (Quantiferon Gold Plus) on the market. How Does Discounted Labs Work? 1-   Click on the Lab Near You page to ensure we serve your state and that a location is near you.  2-   If a location is near you, go to Quantiferon Gold Test and add it to the shopping cart.  3-    If you have a discount coupon code, add it to your cart. You will earn points for every purchase you can redeem in future orders. 4-   If you don't have an account with us, you will be asked to create one by adding your name, address, gender, and date of birth. Note: You cannot place an order for someone else unless you create an account for them. 5-   Place your order by using a credit card. 6-    You will receive three emails: an order confirmation & detailed instructions within minutes about how to download your lab requisition form to take to the lab near you. 7-    Print the lab requisition form (PDF file).  8-    Take that form to the  lab near you . You can walk in, but we suggest you make an appointment to cut down on potential waiting (instructions on how to do so are on our "Find a Location" page). Get your blood drawn at the lab.   9-  Your results will be ready within 2-7 business days (Depending on the test. Sensitive hormone tests done by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry LC/MS take 5-7 business days). You will receive them by email as soon as they come in. Please contact us if you have any questions. We also have answered a lot of questions in our Frequently Asked Questions page More Facts About TB Testing Children less than 2 years old should have the TB skin test instead of the TB blood test. The TB blood test is one of two types of tests used to detect TB. A persistent cough that has lasted for three weeks or longer. A TB blood test takes a single visit to complete, and the test results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours after the blood sample is collected. A small needle is inserted into the vein, and a sample of blood is collected into up to three vials. The results of the TB blood test may be available within 24 to 48 hours after taking the blood sample. Experts recommend testing at least 6 to 8 weeks after exposure to TB. QuantiFERON (QFT) is an interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) that helps check for tuberculosis (TB) infections, whether they are active or latent. The CDC suggests using QFT instead of the tuberculin skin test (TST) in some cases. The QFT has been shown to be more accurate than the TST in identifying people who may have a latent TB infection. A meta-analysis calculated a pooled sensitivity for TST at 70% (23 of 25 studies in developed countries) and a pooled sensitivity for QFT at 84% (13 studies in developed countries). One study reported up to a 32% reduction in cost compared to the TST. If a positive QFT result is the discrete referral decision driver vs. a positive TST (using the data in the study), a QFT positive result might have reduced the chest x-ray referral by 37.5% in the group with no BCG vaccination, who also had a prior TST inoculation history. A QFT positive result might also have reduced the referrals within all study participants by 60% (including the sum of no BCG/no TST history; BCG; and TST/no BCG history participants). Approximately 11 million individuals in the US are currently infected with LTBI, so it is critical for patients to be screened for TB infection prior to the initiation of immunosuppressive treatment, including biologic agents for autoimmune diseases. For such people, an alternative is to assume, without additional testing, that the initial result is a false positive. These tests are mostly developed for the field of tuberculosis diagnosis , but in theory, they may be used in the diagnosis of other diseases that rely on cell-mediated immunity, e.g., cytomegalovirus, leishmaniasis, and COVID-19 . The first test measures how much IFN-γ is made in response to ESAT-6 and CFP-10 antigens from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These antigens are different from those found in BCG and most other mycobacteria that are not tuberculous. Conclusion In conclusion, the IGRA test is a valuable tool for diagnosing certain infections and conditions. It provides accurate and reliable results that can help guide clinical decisions and treatment plans. Understanding the mechanism behind IGRAs and how to interpret the test results is crucial for healthcare professionals and individuals seeking testing. It is important to follow the pre- and post-test guidelines to ensure accurate results. If you are considering getting an IGRA test, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if it is necessary for your specific situation. Remember, early detection and proper management can make a significant difference in your health outcomes. If you're looking for an affordable IGRA test near you, please visit our website for more information. Citations Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Testing for TB Infection. Retrieved July 22, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/testing/igra.htm Gerald, L., Blumberg, H., & Burzynski, J. (2021). Tuberculosis. In: Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents (4th ed.). Retrieved July 22, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560585/ Minnesota Department of Health. (n.d.). Tuberculosis (TB) Facts - Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs). Retrieved July 22, 2023, from https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/tb/basics/factsheets/igra.html

Table of Contents What is the Epstein-Barr Virus? EBV Symptoms How Can Someone Get Infected with EBV? Diagnosing EBV Treating EBV EBV Complications How is EBV Tested Using Blood Samples? Blood Tests for EBV Infection at DiscountedLabs.com How Does It Work? What’s Next? What is the Epstein-Barr Virus? The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is known to be one of the widely spread viruses in the world. Estimates show that approximately 95% of adults have antibodies for this virus. This means that they are infected or have been infected with EBV at some point in their lives. EBV can cause an infection called mononucleosis as well as other health complications which can be life-threatening. It’s important to extend your knowledge about EBV so that you can protect yourself and avoid complications. EBV can be tested for using two different tests you can purchase from DiscountedLabs.com - the EBV Acute Infection Antibodies Profile and the EBV Early Antigen Assembly IgG. Let’s talk about EBV in greater details. EBV Symptoms EBV is also known as the human herpesvirus 4, and it is commonly found all over the world. Most adults get infected with this virus at some point in their lives, but usually, symptoms are mild and complications rare. Here are the most common symptoms of EBV: Rashes Extreme fatigue Inflamed spleen and throat Inflamed lymph nodes Enlarged liver It’s important to notice that most people don’t have any symptoms, particularly children. When symptoms do occur, these are easily confused with the symptoms of other common illnesses. If a person shows symptoms of having EBV, these can go away in about three or four weeks without treatment. However, some people experience symptoms such as extreme fatigue for several months in a row. This is rare, though. People who have relatively weak immune systems are more likely to develop symptoms. After an EBV infection, the virus can get deactivated and stay in the body for the rest of your life. It is possible for the virus to “wake up” and show symptoms again over your lifetime, but your body has already developed antibodies, so its negative effects are greatly diminished.   How Can Someone Get Infected with EBV? EBV can be transmitted from one person to the other very easily. Here are the most common transmission methods: Through saliva (kissing) Sharing objects, cutlery items or a toothbrush with an infected person Sharing food recipients, cups or eating tools with an infected person lGetting in contact with objects with saliva on them such as the toys of babies Sexual contact Blood transfusions Organ transplant The most common transmission is through saliva. Kissing an infected person can easily get the virus from his/her body to yours. EBV is known to stay on infected objects for as long as these are moist. Therefore, if you use cutlery or glasses previous used by infected people, you will get EBV. Once you get EBV, you’ll also indirectly spread it to others as the virus is in an active state. EBV can also be transferred to another person through bodily fluids (semen or blood) as well as through organ transplants. Diagnosing EBV It is relatively difficult to diagnose EBV since this virus shows symptoms like other illnesses so that doctors can get easily confused. However, more advanced testing methods have been created, and you can detect EBV in your body using a blood test. The blood test checks for EBV antibodies created by your system. Nearly 90% of adults have EBV antibodies which means they have been infected with this virus before. Treating EBV Treating EBV is also quite difficult because there’s no way to get this virus out of your system once it’s there. However, you can use over the counter medicine to alleviate the symptoms of EBV. For example, people frequently use pain and fever medication as well as other types of pills to reduce fatigue. The only way to prevent getting infected with EBV is to avoid kissing infected persons or using objects previously used by them. Make sure that you stay away from toothbrushes used by a person with EBV as well as food utensils, cutlery items, etc. EBV Complications In rare cases, EBV can cause different types of complications and severe health conditions. Mononucleosis is one the most common conditions caused by EBV. That’s why it’s important to test yourself and see if you have been infected with EBV in the past. For example, EBV can cause mild ear infections in children as well as diarrhea, gastrointestinal problems or cold-like symptoms such as a running nose. EBV infections can also cause neurological problems such as Guillain-Barré syndrome. This health condition is an auto-immune disease in which the immune system starts attacking nerve cells. As a result, people with Guillain-Barré syndrome experience numbness, tingling sensations and paralysis in the worst cases. Meningoencephalitis is also a common health complication of EBV. This is characterized by an infection of the meninges and the brain at the same time. Other people report abnormalities in the way blood is coagulated in the body, leading to anemia, leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Since EBV can enlarge the spleen, very few people experience a rupture of the spleen as a complication of EBV. This happens very rarely (2 in 1000 people). Other complications include airway obstructions as a result of inflamed airway tissues. Although it can happen very rarely, certain types of cancers or tumors can also appear as a result of getting infected with EBV. These life-threatening conditions develop later in life after the virus has been present in the body for many years. For example, the Burkitt's lymphoma is a common tumor found in people with EBV. It is commonly found among African children and the tumors are in the jaw area. Studies show that more than 95% of children in Africa have been infected with this disease. Hodgkin lymphoma can also develop as a result of an EBV infection. This disease is life-threatening, and doctors have found approximately 50% of EVB material when analyzing patients with Hodgkin lymphoma, so there is a correlation between the two. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is also associated with EBV infections, particularly in Chinese populations. Very few people have developed this cancer, though. T-cell lymphomas have been correlated with EBV infections too as well as certain hematologic conditions. How is EBV Tested Using Blood Samples? As mentioned earlier, you can test to see if you have been infected with EBV by using the tests available at DiscountedLabs.com. These tests require you to draw a blood sample which will be analyzed in a laboratory. The test is run to determine if there are EBV-specific antibodies present in your system. If antibodies are found, it means that you have been infected with EBV recently or at some point in the past. If no antibodies are found, it means that you don’t have EBV. However, since this disease is easily transmissible, you can still get it at some point in the future from an infected person. EBV antibodies are created as a response to EBV-specific antigens. An antigen is a type of toxin which triggers an immune reaction in the body. For example, the EBV test looks for antibodies to three specific antigens such as viral capsid antigen IgG (VCA), VCA IgM and EBNA which stands for Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen. Depending on whether some or all these antibodies are present in the blood, the doctors can diagnose the EBV infection and determine its severity. For example: If there are antibodies to the EBNA antigen present in the body, the infection has occurred at some point in the past. If there are VCA IgM antibodies and no antibodies to EBNA, then this means that the EBV infection happened very recently If there are VCA IgG antibodies present in the blood, then it means that the infection occurred at some point in the past or recently. Blood Tests for EBV Infection at DiscountedLabs.com DiscountedLabs offers you two types of tests to determine whether you have been infected with EBV or not. The EBV Acute Infection Antibodies Profile test looks at the antibodies to all three antigens we talked about earlier. This test comes at an affordable price, and it can help in diagnosing EBV infection as well as ruling out other illnesses such as chronic fatigue syndrome. The EBV Early Antigen Assembly IgG test can be used in diagnosing the EBV infection, and it should be used in conjunction with other clinical information related to the patient. The test uses the chemiluminescent immunoassay method which is very accurate in detecting antibodies in the bloodstream. How Does It Work? Taking advantage of these tests is easy. You just order your preferred test from DiscountedLabs, and you’ll be emailed a form to print out and visit a nearby lab for blood collection. Your samples will be analyzed in a laboratory, and you’ll get the results mailed back to you in just a few business days. You can check the results against reference values, or you can talk with your physician to help you interpret the results. That’s it! What’s Next? As you can see, EBV appears to be harmless, and it’s usually asymptomatic. However, your health is more important than anything, and it’s great to know whether an EBV infection transforms into something more complicated. Order the tests from DiscountedLabs today and be in complete control of your health!

Determining if you have an underlying thyroid issue can be difficult, as many of the symptoms associated with thyroid disease are also common to other medical conditions. However, a thyroglobulin antibody test can help determine whether you have an autoimmune disease that targets the thyroid, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid issues [1]. In this article, we will explore what thyroglobulin antibodies are, what a thyroglobulin antibody test entails, and how to interpret the results of such a test. Table of Contents What are Thyroglobulin Antibodies? Why You May Need This Test What is a Thyroglobulin Antibody Test? How to Interpret the Results of a Thyroglobulin Antibody Test Conclusion References: What are Thyroglobulin Antibodies? Thyroglobulin is a protein that the thyroid gland creates. This protein is responsible for helping the body create, store, and release thyroid hormone [4]. Thyroglobulin antibodies, on the other hand, are antibodies that the immune system creates to attack this specific protein [4]. While some people may have naturally occurring thyroglobulin antibodies, their presence can also suggest the presence of an autoimmune disease that targets the thyroid, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid issues [2]. Why You May Need This Test If your doctor suspects you have a thyroid issue, you might need this test. Those with thyroid issues may develop thyroglobulin antibodies. You can have an overactive thyroid or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) (hyperthyroidism). The thyroid gland can be destroyed by thyroglobulin antibodies, which target thyroglobulin proteins. To verify the outcomes of a thyroglobulin test, you could undergo this examination. The thyroglobulin protein is measured in this assay. This test may be included in follow-up exams if you've had thyroid cancer treatment to monitor your health. Overactive thyroid symptoms include: I feel weak and exhausted. trembling fingers and hands shedding pounds Feeling uneasy, tense, or agitated sweating profusely rapid or erratic heartbeat low heat tolerance Underactive thyroid symptoms include: gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation issues with the menstrual cycle fatigue and a lack of enthusiasm Dry skin and hair inflammation around the eyes a persistent sensation of being chilled gaining weight Depression Forgetfulness aching joints What is a Thyroglobulin Antibody Test? A thyroglobulin antibody test, also known as a TgAb test, is a blood test that checks for the presence of thyroglobulin antibodies in the bloodstream [2]. The test is typically ordered by a physician if they suspect the presence of a thyroid issue based on symptoms, medical history, or other diagnostic tests. The test is simple and requires only a small sample of blood, typically taken from a vein in the arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. How to Interpret the Results of a Thyroglobulin Antibody Test Interpreting the results of a thyroglobulin antibody test can be complicated, as there are a number of factors to consider. In general, however, a positive result (i.e., the presence of thyroglobulin antibodies) can suggest the presence of an autoimmune disease that targets the thyroid, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid issues [2]. It is important to note, however, that a positive result does not necessarily mean that a person has a thyroid issue. Some people may have naturally occurring thyroglobulin antibodies without any underlying thyroid issues [4]. If a person receives a positive result on a thyroglobulin antibody test, their physician will likely order additional diagnostic tests to confirm or rule out the presence of a thyroid issue. These tests may include a thyroid function test, a thyroid ultrasound, or a biopsy of the thyroid gland [1]. Conclusion If you are experiencing symptoms associated with thyroid disease, such as fatigue, weight gain, or hair loss, it may be worth discussing a thyroglobulin antibody test with your physician. This simple blood test can help determine whether you have an autoimmune disease that targets the thyroid, thyroid cancer, or other thyroid issues. However, it is important to remember that a positive result on a thyroglobulin     References:   [1] "A thyroglobulin antibody test is used to determine if you have an underlying thyroid issue. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the front of your neck. It creates essential hormones for the body to function correctly. Thyroid hormones play a role in your bodys metabolism, growth, and development." Reference [2] "The TgAb test checks for the presence of thyroglobulin antibodies. These antibodies can suggest the presence of an autoimmune disease that targets the thyroid, thyroid cancer, or..." URL: Reference [3] "Thyroglobulin is a protein that your thyroid makes. Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck. It makes hormones that control many activities in your body, including your heart rate and how fast you burn calories from food. A thyroglobulin test is a type of tumor marker test." URL: Reference [4] "Thyroglobulin is an important protein found directly in your thyroid gland. This protein plays an important role in helping your body CREATE thyroid hormone, STORE thyroid hormone, and RELEASE (1) thyroid hormone. Thyroglobulin antibodies are antibodies that your own immune system creates which ATTACK this particular protein." URL: Reference

COVID-19 has demonstrated that men tend to get it more than women. This has suggested to researchers that perhaps testosterone is to blame for more severe disease, which has led to the formulation of several theories. The cytokine theory proposes that a low testosterone level leads to an increase in inflammatory immune system proteins called cytokines which may facilitate a cytokine storm in men with COVID-19.  Conversely, the testosterone-driven COVID-19 theory suggests that testosterone may promote infection by the severe acute respiratory syndrome. An increase in venous thromboembolism has also been associated with COVID-19, particularly in patients who are more severely affected.  Furthermore, previous studies have found that even though patients diagnosed with cancer have an increased risk of contracting COVID-19, men on androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer had a lower risk of developing an infection. TRT and COVID-19 Risks Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is associated with secondary polycythemia (increased red blood cell production), but it is unclear whether this leads to an increase in thromboembolic events. However, some authors have suggested that men should be taken off TRT during this pandemic. A study was performed to determine the impact of TRT on the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in men at the School of Medicine of Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and published on the Journal of Sexual Medicine in October, 2020. A total of 3,697 men diagnosed with COVID-19 were identified of which 38 were on TRT. 6 men in the TRT group and 13 men in the control group had incomplete data and were excluded resulting in inclusion of 32 men in the TRT and 63 men in the control groups. Among men on TRT, 32 were diagnosed with hypogonadism (2 hypergonadotropic, 7 hypogonadotropic, and 23 mixed). 23 men received intramuscular testosterone cypionate injections while 9 were on transdermal testosterone gel. TRT-COVID-19 Study Results Patients on TRT had higher rates of hypertension (65.6% vs 55.5%), cardiovascular disease (37.5% vs 30.1%), diabetes mellitus (40.6% vs 30.1%), and immunosuppression (25% vs 14.2%) and a lower rate of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease than controls (12.5% vs 25.4%), none of which were statistically significant.  When focusing on endpoints, patients on TRT had similar rates of hospitalization (62.5% vs 63.4%), thromboembolic events (12.5% vs 12.7%), and death (9.3% vs 12.7%) as their counterparts not on TRT. Patients on TRT had lower rates of ICU admission (12.5% vs 25.4%) and mechanical ventilator utilization (9.3% vs 19.0%) than patients not on TRT, but none were statistically significant. TRT was not an independent predictor of any of the examined endpoints on multivariable analysis. Testosterone Level and COVID-19 Once an infection occurs, testosterone may serve a protective role by decreasing the risk of a cytokine storm. A recent report observed lower levels of testosterone in men who were admitted to the ICU with SARS-CoV-2 infections. It is unknown whether these men had a low testosterone level at baseline or if they developed a low testosterone level in response to the infection. There is evidence to suggest that most men admitted to acute care units have a transient suppression of testosterone to a level below the normal range. A decreased testosterone level is associated with an increase in proinflammatory markers.  Testosterone may facilitate cell infection with the SARS-CoV-2 but also be protective of worse clinical outcomes during active infections. A study measuring testosterone levels of men at baseline and at various times during COVID-19 may help further delineate this relationship. In conclusion, this study failed to demonstrate a statistically significant difference in COVID-19 outcomes among men treated with TRT and those not on TRT. Future studies are needed to help further guide clinicians on the optimal management of hypogonadism with TRT in the era of COVID-19.   Reference: J Sex Med. 2020 Oct 9  

  The statistics are staggering regardless of where in the world they come from and the message they bring with them is the same – men are more likely to become infected with Covid-19 and die from it than women. In Europe, it has recently been estimated that 63 percent of all Covid-19 deaths are men. In one large subset of Covid-19 patients in China, more than 70 percent of those who died were men. And in New York City, as of early April, the rate of Covid-19 infection for women was 23 per 100,000, while for men it was nearly double that at 43 per 100,000. Data cannot lie, and there’s a lot more of it that all points to the same conclusion. Let’s first look at a few reasons why this trend exists then dive into a particular subset of men who are especially vulnerable to the coronavirus.   Men have More Preexisting Conditions We’ve heard it dozens of times. Anyone with a certain preexisting medical condition is more likely to be affected negatively by the Covid-19 virus, while those who do not have those conditions are more prone to a better outcome. Here’s the unfortunate part if you’re a man: Men have higher rates of nine out of the top 10 leading causes of death in the U.S. compared to women. All of those conditions are going to be problematic when you ask the human body to deal with another threat. But when it comes to Covid-19, conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and liver disease are all a concern and all conditions that men have in greater abundance than do women.   It’s in the Enzyme A recent study has shown that men have higher concentrations of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in their blood than women. Since ACE2 enables Covid-19 to infect healthy cells, researchers reported that this may contribute to men being more vulnerable to the disease than women.   Negative Lung Health Behaviors Research has suggested that smoking may play a role in Covid-19 deaths, as smoking is related to higher expression of those ACE2 receptors we mentioned above. However, it’s not just smoking that can have negative respiratory effects that may contribute to Covid-19 related problems. Air pollution is also a concern. And unfortunately for men, we’re the ones more likely to be working outside.   Women have Stronger Immune Systems It’s no surprise. A stronger immune system can ward off illness and disease more easily than an immune system that’s not working as it should. And thanks to an extra X chromosome, women appear more biologically capable of fighting those battles than men. According to Veena Taneja, who studies differences in male and female immune systems at the Mayo Clinic, the second X chromosome isn’t usually activated, but it can be activated. "Many of those genes are actually immune-response genes," Taneja said. She added this could provide women with an additional layer of protection against the coronavirus. That extra X chromosome is also thought to contribute to a higher rate of autoimmune diseases in women.   Low Testosterone in Men Makes Covid-19 Much Worse There are a number of reasons, as you can see from the above list, why men have a higher death rate when it comes to Covid-19. There are also a number of solutions: Be healthier in general. Don’t smoke. Make sure your immune system is getting the support it needs. But when it comes to Covid-19, there seems to be one factor in particular that separates strong males from susceptible males. A study published on April 27, 2020 has shown testosterone to be a key hormone in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. The study points out that testosterone is reduced by age and many preexisting conditions and this, too, comes with higher rates of a poor Covid-19 outcome. The study found that low testosterone levels can cause a reduction in respiratory muscle activity, while normal testosterone levels have a protective effect on the respiratory system. Most importantly, researchers found a correlation between inflammation, testosterone, and the virus. The study highlights the role of proinflammatory cytokines in the progression of the Covid-19 infection and how any successful treatment must include reducing that cytokine activity. The study’s researchers also mention how testosterone may downregulate this inflammation and suggested, “testosterone may have a role in the cascade of events leading to progression of Covid-19 infection due to the cytokine storm.” According to another study, the majority of male patients with Covid-19 also presented with low testosterone levels on admission to the intensive care unit at University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf in Hamburg, Germany. According to the study, researchers “systematically analyzed sex hormones as well as cytokine and chemokine responses in male and female patients with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections upon hospital admission.” Researchers also identified risk factors like hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic heart disease, with cancer being the only factor where the women admitted had a higher prevalence than the men. But it was their testosterone findings that were most surprising. Most male Covid-19 patients admitted to intensive care had low testosterone levels – 69 percent – and low dihydrotestosterone levels – 49 percent. Perhaps more shocking, most female Covid-19 patients had elevated testosterone levels – 60 percent. The study’s researchers concluded that “We here show that critically ill male Covid-19 patients suffer from severe testosterone and dihydrotestosterone deficiencies. Both androgens are required to mount antiviral immune responses to combat infection in males.” There is still much we don’t know about this virus and new information is coming in all the time. However, there are a few things that are becoming clear, like men having a higher prevalence of a bad outcome from Covid-19, but also how important testosterone levels are to every man’s chances of fighting this virus.   TIPS: Would you like to maximize your testosterone levels? Would you like to have more energy and enthusiasm for life? Would you like to increase your chances of successfully fighting Covid-19? Check out Nelson Vergel’s new 386-page illustrated book – Beyond Testosterone– for FREE. Simply follow that link to claim your copy. You can also find out if you have low testosterone by buying your own testosterone blood test cheaply online with no doctor order needed (U.S. only). Last but not least, chat with other men and experts about men's health and testosterone on the best men's health TRT forum.    

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) From January 1 to May 10, 2019, over 839 individual cases of measles have been confirmed in 23 states in the United States. This is an increase of 75 cases from the previous week. This is the greatest number of cases reported in the U.S. since 1994 and since measles was declared eliminated in 2000. This increase has been fueled by the anti-vaccine movement and other factors.  Alarmingly, two-thirds of pediatricians and other primary care physicians expect deaths from measles or resulting diseases to increase, according to a recent survey by real-time market insights technology firm InCrowd done in April 2019. But how do you know if you are protected against Measles? What are Measles? Measles is a highly contagious virus that lives in the mucus of an infected person. It can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. The measles virus can live for up to two hours in a space where the infected person coughed or sneezed. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected. Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90% of the people close to that person who are not immune will also become infected. Infected people can spread measles to others from four days before through four days after the rash appears. Early symptoms include high fever, a cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Two or three days later small white spots may appear inside the mouth. Within three to five days the red measles rash breaks out on the face and spreads down the body to the feet. The patient’s fever may go to 104 degrees or higher. In a few days, the fever goes down and the rash fades. If you have been exposed to measles, call your doctor immediately and let them know. Your doctor can determine if you are immune to measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence, and make special arrangements to evaluate you, if needed, without putting other patients and medical office staff at risk. Are You Immune to Measles? As a disturbing surge in measles cases has been reported nationwide, Professor of Medicine at New York University Dr. Marc Siegel warns that if you were vaccinated between a certain time frame, you might not be as immune to the disease as you think. Dr. Siegel told "America's Newsroom" hosts on Tuesday that a primary reason the CDC is informing the public about these skyrocketing numbers is so that individuals born between 1963 and 1989 know that they should be checked by a physician to ensure their vaccines were successful. CDC considers you protected from measles if you have written documentation (records) showing at least one of the following: You received two doses of measles-containing vaccine, and you are a(n) 1. a school-aged child (grades K-12) 2. adult who will be in a setting that poses a high risk for measles transmission, including students at post-high school education institutions, healthcare personnel, and international travelers. You received one dose of measles-containing vaccine, and you are a(n) — 1. preschool-aged child 2. adult who will not be in a high-risk setting for measles transmission. A laboratory confirmed that you had measles at some point in your life. A laboratory confirmed that you are immune to measles. (Buy a Measles Immunity Test Here ) You were born before 1957. CDC recommends that people get MMR vaccine to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella. Children should get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Teens and adults should also be up to date on their MMR vaccination. Children may also get MMRV vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). This vaccine is only licensed for use in children who are 12 months through 12 years of age. Some people should not get MMR vaccine or should wait. Tell your vaccine provider if the person getting the vaccine: 1. Has any severe, life-threatening allergies. A person who has ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction after a dose of MMR vaccine, or has a severe allergy to any part of this vaccine, may be advised not to be vaccinated. Ask your health care provider if you want information about vaccine components. 2. Is pregnant, or thinks she might be pregnant. Pregnant women should wait to get MMR vaccine until after they are no longer pregnant. Women should avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 month after getting MMR vaccine. 3. Has a weakened immune system due to disease (such as cancer or HIV/AIDS) or medical treatments (such as radiation, immunotherapy, steroids, or chemotherapy). 4. Has a parent, brother, or sister with a history of immune system problems. 5. Has ever had a condition that makes them bruise or bleed easily. 6. Has recently had a blood transfusion or received other blood products. You might be advised to postpone MMR vaccination for 3 months or more. 7. Has tuberculosis. 8. Has gotten any other vaccines in the past 4 weeks. Live vaccines given too close together might not work as well. 9. Is not feeling well. A mild illness, such as a cold, is usually not a reason to postpone a vaccination. Someone who is moderately or severely ill should probably wait. Your doctor can advise you. Do not take a chance, find out if you have immunity to Measles by getting tested.