The precipitin reaction is based upon the interaction of antigen with antibody leading to the production of antigen-antibody complexes.
Precipitin assays are commonly used in the diagnosis of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
By detecting the presence of pathogen-specific antigens in patient samples, healthcare professionals can identify the causing agent of an infection and initiate appropriate treatment.
[2] Precipitin assays are used in allergy testing to identify allergen-specific antibodies (IgE) in patient serum samples.
[3] By exposing the serum to a panel of common allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and food proteins, healthcare professionals can determine the specific allergens triggering an individual's allergic reactions.