Saliva testing
Saliva Testing
Saliva testing (pronunciation: /səˈlaɪvə ˈtɛstɪŋ/) is a diagnostic technique that involves laboratory analysis of saliva to identify markers of endocrine, immunologic, inflammatory, infectious, and other types of conditions.
Etymology
The term "saliva testing" is derived from the Latin word "saliva," meaning "spit," and the English word "testing," which refers to the act of conducting an examination or evaluation.
Procedure
Saliva testing is a non-invasive procedure that can be performed in various settings, including at home, in a doctor's office, or in a laboratory. The individual being tested spits into a collection tube, which is then sealed and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The saliva sample is examined for the presence of specific substances, such as hormones, drugs, antibodies, or bacteria, that may indicate certain health conditions.
Uses
Saliva testing is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Detecting the presence of HIV or other infectious diseases
- Monitoring hormone levels in individuals with endocrine disorders
- Screening for drug use
- Diagnosing conditions such as Sjogren's syndrome, which affects the salivary glands
- Assessing risk factors for diseases such as oral cancer and periodontal disease
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of saliva testing include its non-invasive nature, ease of collection, and the ability to perform multiple tests on a single sample. However, saliva testing may not be as accurate as blood testing for certain conditions, and the results can be affected by recent food or drink consumption, oral health status, and other factors.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Saliva testing
- Wikipedia's article - Saliva testing
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