Yersinia enterocolitica Antibodies, IgA, Serum

Yersinia enterocolitica is an important human enteroinvasive pathogen with a global distribution. Y. enterocolitica is able to proliferate at temperatures of about 4°C. Pigs are regarded as a major reservoir of Y. enterocolitica. Of the six biotypes of Y. enterocolitica, five biotypes (1B, 2, 3, 4, and 5) are considered pathogenic in humans. The clinical spectrum of Y. enterocolitica infections varies with age and underlying conditions. Most commonly, yersiniosis is associated with gastroenteritis, although in children more severe clinical manifestations (peritonitis, ileitis, pseudoappendicitis) are observed and several fatalities have been reported. Due to the tropism for lymphoid tissues and the spread of the bacterium via the bloodstream, generalised infections may occur, resulting in meningitis, endocarditis and aneurysm. Y. enterocolitica may also induce secondary, postinfectious sequelae such as erythema nodosum and acute and chronic arthritis.

Isolation of Y. enterocolitica from faeces is not always feasible. Accordingly, diagnosis often depends on serological assays. Early in infection a rise in serum titre of Yersinia-specific antibodies, mainly the immunoglobulin A (IgA) class antibodies is observed.

1 ml Serum Room Temperature

Not Detectable: < 20 U/mL Borderline: 20 - 24 U/mL Abs Detectable: > 24 U/mL