Radioimmunoassay for human health in developing countries

Abstract

In the developing world, RIA (radioimmunoassay) is used primarily for patient management, but research activity is also increasing as expertise and resources improve. The majority of patient samples processed are in relation to thyroid disorders, with RIAs for thyroxine (T sub(4)), triiodothyronine (T sub(3)) and thyrotrophin (TSH) outnumbering other procedures. However, the technique also is used widely in the investigation of other endocrine conditions and public health problems. To an encouraging degree; some developing countries have gained the capability to perform radioisotopic microassays in areas of clinical and research importance such as steroid receptor quantification in breast tissue; diagnosis of bacterial and parasitic disorders; investigation of infertility and sterility; narcotic drug abuse; and organ transplantation.