What does LFT stand for?

Latex Flocculation Test

The Latex Flocculation Test, abbreviated as LFT within medical circles, serves as a critical diagnostic tool for identifying the presence of certain antibodies or antigens in a patient's serum. This test operates on the principle of antigen-antibody interaction, where latex particles coated with specific antigens are mixed with the serum. A visible flocculation or clumping indicates a positive reaction, suggesting the presence of the targeted antibodies. This method is widely utilized due to its cost-effectiveness and the speed with which results can be obtained.

Despite its advantages, the Latex Flocculation Test requires careful interpretation, as false positives can occur due to nonspecific binding. It's often employed as a screening test, with positive results necessitating further confirmatory tests. The LFT's utility spans various medical fields, including infectious disease diagnostics and autoimmune disease screening, highlighting its versatility. However, the accuracy of the test is contingent upon the quality of the reagents used and the conditions under which the test is performed.