Heterophile antibodies are antibodies that cross-react with antigens from different species. They are typically produced in response to an infection or other stimulus and can interfere with certain laboratory tests.
Types of Heterophile Antibodies
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies: These antibodies are produced in response to EBV infection and can cause false-positive results in rapid strep tests.
Antibodies that develop after receiving animal serum injections, such as in immunotherapy, can interfere with immunoassays.
Some autoimmune antibodies, such as rheumatoid factor, can cross-react with heterophile antigens.
Clinical Significance
Heterophile antibodies can cause false-positive results in laboratory tests, such as: Rapid strep tests, Monospot tests for EBV, Immunoassays for thyroid function, and Antibody detection tests for certain infections.