Microbiology Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

ELISA, which stands for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, is primarily classified as a diagnostic test because it is designed to detect the presence of antigens or antibodies in a sample. This ability to confirm the presence of a specific substance in a biological sample makes it extremely useful in both clinical and research settings for diagnosing diseases, including infections and autoimmune disorders.

While ELISA can also provide quantitative information about the amount of a substance present, its fundamental purpose is to determine whether a specific target substance is present or absent, thereby categorizing it as a diagnostic tool. It excels in assessing immunity, viral infections, and various health conditions, which further emphasizes its role in diagnostics.

It is important to note that ELISA tests can be used in both qualitative and quantitative contexts depending on the specific protocol and objective of the assay. However, its core classification as a diagnostic test stems from its primary function in identifying the presence of diseases or conditions in individuals.