Understanding Antigens and Their Effects in the Immune System

Antigen is a substance that can stimulate the immune system or the immune system to produce antibodies as resistance, which is a form of body protection against antigens. Bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances such as chemicals, are classified as antigens for the human body. The immune system considers antigens as foreign substances that can threaten our body. Antigens generally come from outside the body through food, drinks, dirt, dust, and various things in the surrounding environment. In addition, antigens are also found in tissues and cells in the body, including cancer cells.

Relationship of Antigens and Antibodies

As explained above, antibodies are part of the immune system that acts as a bulwark to protect the body from the threat of viruses, bacteria, germs, and substances that cause infection and disease. Antibodies will be produced by the immune system according to the amount of antigen. Antibodies have a specific form of antigen to be opposed. It is intended that antibodies can stick to the antigen and fight it, so that the antigen does not develop and cause infection and disease.

Antigen Test

Several types of tests can be done to detect the presence of antigens on the surface of bacteria and germs, thus helping speed and accuracy in diagnosing a disease. Thus treatment can be given more quickly, in order to achieve better treatment success. Some types of tests that are often done include:

• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)

This test is carried out to measure PSA levels in a man's blood. PSA is a chemical produced by the prostate gland. Useful as an examination to detect prostate disorders, such as prostatitis and prostate cancer.

• Dengue virus nonstructural protein 1 antigen (NS1)

This antigen test is done to detect the presence of NS1 protein in the body. Positive results indicate someone is experiencing an acute infection of the dengue virus, so it is useful to diagnose cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) quickly and accurately.

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)

This examination is carried out to detect the presence of proteins present on the surface of the hepatitis B virus. Generally give high results in acute and chronic hepatitis B infections.

• HIV antigen (P24)

Although not yet quite common in Indonesia, HIV antigen (P24) tests are performed to check whether someone has contracted the HIV virus (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) or not. P24 is a protein found in the HIV virus, and can be detected high in the first few weeks after infection. This test can be combined with other types of tests to diagnose HIV.

In addition to the above tests, there are still various types of antigen tests that can be done to help doctors diagnose infections or other medical conditions.

Keep Viruses and Bacteria Away

Antigens generally come from outside the body, including viruses and bacteria. Here are some simple ways you can do to prevent infections and diseases caused by viruses and bacteria:

• Washing hands

Washing hands with soap before eating, after sneezing or coughing, after changing diapers, and after urinating will help you kill viruses and bacteria.

• Vaccination

Vaccination / immunization is very effective to protect your body from the threat of certain diseases. Vaccines are often given to children, but adults also need to carry out vaccinations as directed.

• Drugs

Several types of drugs can help protect our body from germs that can cause infections and certain diseases.

Antigens are all around us, and are often difficult to avoid. However, by always implementing a healthy lifestyle, the body will have the ability to fight antigens and prevent disease. Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms of infection or other disorders. The doctor will do certain antigen tests to help make the diagnosis, if needed.