What is a Dengue profile (ELISA) Test?
A dengue blood test analyses a blood sample to check for the presence of the virus. Also known as the dengue fever Profile (ELISA) test, is recommended if you display symptoms of dengue fever and stay in a region where dengue cases are found or have travelled to such a region recently. Several types of Dengue tests can be done using the ELISA method to diagnose the infection. A Dengue Profile test typically involves a combination of these tests to provide a complete picture of the infection. The tests done include:
Dengue NS1 test
Dengue IgG test
Dengue IgM test
If you want to get tested for Dengue, you can take a look at the Dengue test packages, which include a variety of blood tests that can help diagnose a dengue infection. Early diagnosis can help effectively manage the disease and prevent severe complications.
The dengue virus causes various symptoms, many of which aren't specific. Quick confirmation of the diagnosis with laboratory tests is crucial because dengue can rapidly progress to a severe stage. Dengue tests assess various parameters for diagnosing and tracking the infection. Key parameters include:
The dengue NS1 antigen test identifies the NS1 protein in blood and indicates an active (current) dengue infection. NS1 is a glycoprotein created by the dengue virus that triggers a strong immune response.
The dengue IgG and IgM tests measure the antibodies generated by the immune system to fight against dengue infection. IgM antibodies appear in the blood at about 4-5 days after symptoms begin and can confirm that you have dengue currently. IgG antibodies against dengue typically become noticeable in your blood at low levels by the end of the first week of illness, slowly increasing thereafter, and remain detectable for months.
All tests, including the NS1 and IgG/IgM tests, are done using the ELISA method (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), a technique that detects antibodies or antigens through a measurable enzymatic reaction.Here are some key points to help you prepare for a dengue blood test:
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites such as fasting for a dengue blood test
Best time to get tested: It is recommended to get tested as soon as symptoms appear, typically within the first 5 days of fever onset. NS1 Dengue ELISA tests are recommended within the first 7 days of symptoms. IgG and IgM tests may be more useful in later stages, that is, after 7-10 days
Eligibility for Dengue test: If you have symptoms of dengue such as high fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, severe headache, bleeding (such as nose or gum bleed), or pain behind the eyes, you should get a Dengue test done
Cautions before taking the Dengue test: There are no specific precautions to be taken before the test
By preparing with these steps, you can make sure your Dengue Profile test at home or in a lab gives accurate results.
Getting a dengue blood test done is crucial for several reasons:
Early and Accurate Diagnosis: Dengue tests facilitate the early detection of the disease, enabling timely treatment and better management of symptoms. Additionally, these tests provide accurate diagnosis by differentiating dengue from other viral infections, ensuring appropriate treatment.
Prevention of Complications: If not detected or treated early, severe dengue can lead to serious complications like dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which require immediate medical attention.
Public Health: Identifying and reporting dengue cases helps in tracking outbreaks and implementing control measures.
If you've recently traveled to an area with a high number of dengue cases, it's wise to consider getting tested. If you're feeling unwell and are unable to go to a testing center, a Dengue test at home can be a helpful alternative. You can search online for Dengue test near me to locate nearby testing facilities. Opting for a Dengue test ensures thorough evaluation and timely diagnosis of dengue fever, allowing you to receive the necessary medical attention.
3. Is fasting required for a Dengue test?
4. Is home sample collection available for Dengue test ?
Normal levels on Dengue tests include:
Dengue NS1 Antigen:
Negative: ≤0.8
Equivocal: 0.8 to ≤1.1
Positive: ≥1.1
Dengue IgG Antibody:
Negative: <0.8
Equivocal: 0.8 to <1.1
Positive: ≥1.1
Dengue IgM Antibody:
Negative: <0.8
Equivocal: 0.8 to <1.1
Positive: ≥1.1
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