The Weil-Felix agglutination test is used as an initial screening test to diagnose infections due to Rickettsiae.
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The Weil-Felix agglutination test is based on the principle that certain strains of the microbe genus Proteus share common somatic antigens with certain species of the genus Rickettsia. Thus, sera from patients with Rickettsia infections will form agglutinations with Proteus antigen suspensions. Antigen suspension of Proteus OX19 reacts strongly with the serum of patients with Rickettsia infection of the typhoid group (Rickettsia prowazekii, Rickettsia typhi) and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (Rickettsia rickettsii). Proteus OX2 antigen suspension strongly reacts with sera of patients with spotted fever infections (eg, Rickettsia conorii), while Proteus OXK antigen suspension reacts strongly with sera from patients infected with scrub typhus (Rickettsia typhus).
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
