A generic antibody test is performed as an initial screen to identify which antibodies are present in the blood. Which of the following is true about this statement?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Uncertain

Answer: (B)

The key idea here is how screening tests differ from identification tests in serology. A screening test is designed to detect whether any antibodies are present at all, using a broad set of antigens. It does not tell you exactly which antibodies are circulating. If the screen is positive, you then perform an antibody identification test to determine the specific antibody specificities.

So, this statement is false because the initial screen is not intended to identify which antibodies are present; it only indicates that antibodies exist. Identifying the exact antibodies requires follow-up, more targeted testing with antigen panels.