Widal Test (Slide Test)

The Widal test, also known as the slide agglutination test, is a diagnostic laboratory test used to identify certain types of bacterial infections, such as typhoid and paratyphoid fever. The test works by detecting the presence of antibodies in a patient’s blood that are specific to these bacterial infections. During the test, a small amount of the patient’s blood serum is mixed with a solution containing killed bacteria, and the mixture is allowed to settle on a glass slide. If the patient’s serum contains antibodies to the bacteria, it will cause clumping or agglutination of the bacterial particles visible under a microscope. The results are interpreted based on the presence or absence of agglutination, and the titer (concentration) of antibodies in the serum. The Widal test is a useful tool in diagnosing these infections, but it should be used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings for accurate diagnosis and treatment.