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LabVerdict

Glossary · STD Testing

Antigen vs. Antibody Test

An antigen test looks for proteins from the pathogen itself, while an antibody test looks for the immune response your body mounts afterward. The distinction matters for timing: antibody-based tests generally cannot detect an infection immediately after exposure. Reputable services publish which method each test uses; questions about which test fits your situation belong with a healthcare provider.

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