Understanding use of ELISA/serology/PCR/FISH/karyotypingetc tests to determine disease?

[Daitong]

Hi,

Could someone direct me (or teach me) how to understand what test is used for what? I seem to be missing alot of the questions that involve 'which laboratory technique' is used to determine what disease process.

Like I understand what ELISA does, and that FISH and karyotyping are from chromosomal abnormalities, but it's still difficult to differentiate when they are both present as answer options.

Does anyone have any good rules of thumb on this?

Best,

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[Northerncardinal]

I think it also depends on which test is more sensitive or specific for a particular disease. Eg ELISA is sensitive, followed by western blot - which is more specific for diagnosing HIV.

Fish = u can detect gene deletions, insertions, duplications.

Karyotyping = u can detect abnormalities in chromosomal number or any major structural defect

If you're looking for antigens or antibodies --> ELISA is a better choice.

If you'r looking for single nucleotide polymorphisms or variable repeats ---> Microarray is a better choice.