1987 年 107 巻 10 号 p. 739-750
The essential criteria for a useful analytical technique are specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, precision, simplicity, rapidity and economy. The sensitivity and specificity of immunoassays have been improved by utilizing sensitive marker, monoclonal or clonotypic antibodies and adequate conditions for antigen-antibody reaction. Applications of various immunoassays to laboratory medicine make it possible to elucidate etiology of various diseases and make early diagnosis and prevention of the diseases such as congenital hypothyroidism and subclinical prolactinoma. Since the immunoassay has many advantages, its application should result in remarkable progress in laboratory medicine.