Brucellosis (Wright and Huddleson tests)

The Wright and Huddleson tests investigate the antibody response to the organisms causing brucellosis using serological agglutination reactions. Brucellosis is associated, among other exposures, with infected animals and unpasteurised dairy products. Serology is ordered for relevant symptoms and exposure circumstances; the pattern of the result depends on the reaction variant and disease timing.

Cross-reactions are possible, and antibodies may be insufficient early in illness. A positive result does not establish active infection without clinical correlation. The doctor assesses the result together with symptoms, medical history and other investigations. The reference values of the individual laboratory are used for comparison, and changes over time are considered during follow-up.

• Investigate the antibody response when brucellosis is suspected.
• Complement assessment of symptoms following an epidemiologically significant exposure.