Antiserum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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antiserum
[หรฆntiหsษชrษm ]
Definition
medical treatment
A serum that contains antibodies that are used to treat or provide immunity to a specific disease. Antiserum is typically derived from the blood of animals or humans who have been exposed to the disease.
Synonyms
antibody serum, immune serum.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antiserum |
This term is commonly used in medical and scientific contexts to describe a serum containing antibodies that provide immunity to specific diseases or toxins.
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| antibody serum |
This phrase is a more descriptive way of referring to a serum that contains antibodies. It is often used when explaining what the serum does, particularly in educational or explanatory contexts.
|
| immune serum |
This phrase emphasizes the immune-boosting properties of the serum and is often used in contexts discussing immunity and resistance to disease.
|
Examples of usage
- The antiserum was administered to the patient to help fight off the infection.
- After receiving the antiserum, the patient's condition began to improve.
- The doctor recommended using antiserum as a treatment option.
- The antiserum proved to be effective in providing immunity to the disease.
- The hospital stored a supply of antiserum for emergency situations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Medical Use
- Antiserums are often used to treat diseases caused by snake bites, rabies, and other harmful viruses.
- They can quickly provide passive immunity, helping the immune system fight off illness without the body having to produce its own antibodies.
Historical Context
- The first antiserum was developed in 1890 by Emil von Behring and Kitasato Shibasaburo, paving the way for immunotherapy.
- During World War I, antiserum therapy was crucial for treating soldiers who developed gas gangrene infections.
Pop Culture
- Antiserum goes beyond just treating diseases; it's often depicted in movies and shows as a crucial element in saving lives from infections.
- In science fiction, antiserums are commonly portrayed as artifacts that can cure all diseases, highlighting our hopes for medical advancements.
Scientific Research
- Current research is focusing on developing antiserums from genetically engineered animals or human antibodies for broader and more effective treatments.
- Serum therapies are being tested to enhance the effectiveness of vaccines against challenging viruses like Covid-19.
Origin of 'antiserum'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'anti-', meaning 'against', and 'serum', which refers to the clear liquid part of blood.
- It has been used in medicine since the late 19th century to help treat infections and diseases.
The term 'antiserum' originated in the late 19th century, when scientists discovered the concept of using serum containing antibodies to provide immunity against specific diseases. The development of antiserum revolutionized medical treatment and has since become a crucial tool in fighting infectious diseases.