Assay

Haemophilus influenzae type B antibodies (Hib)

Key Words

Haemophilus influenzae type B antibodies, Hib, Functional antibodies

 Specimen Collection

Serum (brown)

This test is referred to another centre: 

Department of Clinical Chemistry and Immunology

Level 4

Addenbrookes Hospital NHS Trust 

Hills Road 

Cambridge , CB2 2QQ                                                                                                                                                   

Tel: 01223 217215
Fax: 01223 217794

Turnaround time

21 days

Test indications

This test measures antibodies to the HIB.  It is used to assess the T cell dependent antibody production pathway. This test is recommended for use in the following clinical conditions:

a) Patients, especially children, with recurrent bacterial sepsis; particularly of the upper and lower respiratory tract.

b) Patients with invasive disease caused by encapsulated organisms.

c) Patients with selective antibody deficiency states and in monitoring immunoglobulin replacement therapy in such patients.

d) Immunological reconstitution following Bone Marrow Transplant.

e) Patients having haemoglobinopathies or who are due to undergo or who have had a splenectomy should have their levels of antibodies to    encapsulated bacteria (i.e. pneumoccocal & Hib) monitored.                     

f)  Patients with radiographical evidence of bronchiectasis.         

Knowledge of vaccine history is imperative for correct interpretation.  Specific clinical symtoms are also advantageous. If a poor response if found, patients will be required to be vaccinated and retested 4 week post.  Specific interpretation is given for each patient result.

Methodology

Contact referral centre

Interferences

Contact referral centre

Reference Range

Basic Protective Levels: 0.15 µg/mL

Optimum Protective Levels: 1.0 µg/mL

Analytical error

Contact referral centre